Typhoon Mina gains more strength, threatens Northern Luzon: PAGASA

Typhoon Mina (Bagyong Mina) has acquired more strength, putting Northern Luzon in danger, the PAGASA said Friday.

Typhoon Mina (Bagyong Mina) satellite shot as of 8 p.m., August 26, 2011 | Source: PAGASA

According to its latest bulletin, Typhoon Mina now has maximum sustained winds of 195 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 230 kph, moving Northwest at a slow rate of 9 kph. The weather disturbance was last spotted at 150 km Northeast of Casiguran, Aurora (17.3°N, 123.5°E).

The PAGASA has hoisted a rare Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Number 4 over Northern Cagayan where winds are expected at >185 kph rate. Lower PSWS were also raised over the following areas:

PSWS Number 3 (100-185 kph winds)
Isabela
Rest of Cagayan
Calayan
Babuyan Group of Island
Batanes Group of Island

PSWS Number 2 (60-100 kph winds)
Northern Aurora
Quirino
Ifugao
Mt. Province
Kalinga
Apayao

PSWS Number 1 (45-60 kph winds)
Rest of Aurora
Nueva Vizcaya
Benguet
Ilocos Sur
Ilocos Norte
Abra

The state weather bureau warns residents in low lying and mountainous areas under PSWS, Southern Luzon and Visayas for possible flashfloods and landslides. Those living in coastal areas are likewise alerted against big waves or storm surges generated by this tropical cyclone.

Rainfall amount is estimated from 15-25 mm per hour within the 600 km diameter of the typhoon.

According to the PAGASA, a PSWS Number 4 could bring the following scenarios:

--Coconut plantation may suffer extensive damage.
--Many large trees may be uprooted.
--Rice and corn plantation may suffer severe losses.
--Most residential and institutional buildings of mixed construction may be severely damaged.
--Electrical power distribution and communication services may be severely disrupted.
--In the overall, damage to affected communities can be very heavy.

Take care, everyone!