By Kenneth Marcos 
As dark clouds gather over the Philippine Sea, communities in Bicol and Southern Luzon brace for Typhoon Opong, which is expected to make landfall by Thursday afternoon or evening, bringing strong winds and heavy rain.
Typhoon Opong continues to intensify as it moves west-northwest across the Philippine Sea. As of Thursday morning, the center of the storm was located 440 kilometers east of Guiuan, Eastern Samar. It is packing maximum sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 135 kilometers per hour.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Opong is moving at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour. On its current path, the typhoon is expected to hit the Bicol Region by Friday, September 26, before crossing Southern Luzon throughout the day. By Saturday, Opong is forecast to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility via the West Philippine Sea.
Heavy Rain, Floods, and Landslides Possible
PAGASA and the Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DA-DRRM) Operations Center warned that Opong, combined with the ongoing southwest monsoon, may bring moderate to heavy rainfall and strong winds to several parts of the country—particularly the western sections of Luzon and Visayas.
Residents in low-lying and mountainous areas are advised to prepare for potential flooding and landslides. Coastal communities may also experience rough seas and should be alert for possible storm surges. Farmers are urged to harvest ready crops and secure farm equipment to reduce losses.
According to disaster preparedness agencies, these weather disturbances pose a minor to moderate threat to life and property in affected areas. Local government units have been asked to activate their disaster response teams and prepare evacuation centers ahead of the typhoon’s landfall.
Preparedness and Monitoring Urged
Families in vulnerable areas are encouraged to monitor official weather updates and follow evacuation orders if needed. PAGASA continues to issue weather bulletins every six hours. Authorities reminded the public to avoid spreading unverified information online to prevent panic.
Transportation by sea and air may also be disrupted. Passengers planning to travel in the coming days are advised to check for advisories from their respective airlines or shipping lines.
Stronger Typhoon Season Expected
Opong is the 15th tropical cyclone to enter the country this year. Weather experts note that more typhoons may develop in the coming months as the peak of the typhoon season continues through October and November.
As the storm approaches, communities across Southern Luzon and nearby provinces must remain vigilant, take early precautions, and prioritize safety.
For the latest weather updates, visit the official website or social media pages of DOST-PAGASA.
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