Ramil strengthens as PAGASA warns communities along the path
Tropical Depression Ramil has intensified as it moves over the West Philippine Sea, prompting PAGASA to raise Signal No. 1 over several areas in Bicol and parts of Visayas. The weather bureau reported that the center of Ramil was about 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching 55 km per hour and gusts up to 70 kph. The system is moving southwest at 25 kph, with outer rain bands expanding up to 350 kilometers from the center.
Areas under Signal No. 1 and expected impacts
Signal No. 1 is hoisted over: Eastern and southern portions of Quezon including the Polillo Islands, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Burias Island, Ticao Island, Northern Samar, Northern Samar’s eastern areas, and the northern parts of Eastern and Samar. The alert signals that accompany these warnings include gusty winds, heavy rainfall in some areas, and potential flash floods or landslides in vulnerable communities. Residents in these provinces should prepare emergency kits, secure outdoor items, and monitor weather advisories for possible changes in wind strength or rainfall intensity.
Forecast tracks and possible landfalls
PAGASA’s forecast suggests Ramil could make landfall over Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon. The system may strengthen into a tropical storm within the next 12 hours and has the potential to become a severe tropical storm if conditions favor intensification. The expected path would generally move westward over the next 24 hours before turning toward Central-Southern Luzon as a west-northwest track. The center could make landfall in Aurora or Quezon by Sunday morning, after which Ramil would cross the rugged terrain of Northern or Central Luzon. By Sunday afternoon or evening, the storm is forecast to reemerge over the West Philippine Sea and is projected to exit the Philippines Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Monday morning or afternoon.
Practical steps for families and communities
As Ramil approaches, residents in affected regions should complete practical preparations. Secure outdoor items, verify family emergency plans, and ensure supplies including water, non-perishable food, medicine, and a charged power bank. If evacuation orders are issued, follow the directions of local government units. Drivers should anticipate possible road flooding or flow restrictions in low-lying areas and choose safe routes. Weather updates from PAGASA and local authorities remain essential for real-time decisions as the system’s intensity and track may shift.
Why monitoring the forecast matters
Forecasting models help anticipate where the heaviest rainfall and strongest winds will occur, enabling timely evacuations and prepositioning of relief assets. With Ramil set to traverse Luzon’s terrain, communities inland and along coastal zones should stay alert for potential disruptions to power, communications, and transport. Local officials are likely to issue advisories on school suspensions, ferry operations, and travel restrictions if conditions worsen.
Key tips for preparedness
- Keep emergency contacts accessible and charge mobile devices fully.
- Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit with water, food, medications, and batteries.
- Secure loose items around homes and ensure drainage around properties is clear to reduce flooding risk.
- Heed warnings about possible landfall areas and follow local authorities’ guidance.
As Ramil evolves, PAGASA will issue updates with the latest wind, rainfall, and track forecasts. Staying informed helps households and communities respond effectively to the changing weather and minimizes risk during this period of enhanced tropical activity.
