According to the latest storm news from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Typhoon Penha is approaching the mainland Philippines.
As of 8 pm today (local time), the storm's center is located at about 8.4 degrees North latitude - 127.4 degrees East longitude, 115 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur province.
The strongest wind in the area near the center of the tropical depression reaches 75 km/h, gusting up to 90 km/h. The storm moves in a West-Northwest direction at a speed of 20 km/h. The area of strong winds to high gusts extends to 380 km from the storm center.
Tropical storm warning level 2, with winds from 62-88 km/h (possibly causing mild to moderate damage to structures and vegetation) is issued by the Philippine government in the following areas: Visayas - Siquijor, southern part of Negros Oriental province, southern part of Negros Occidental, southern part of Cebu, southern part of Bohol (localities details as in the list); Mindanao - Surigao del Norte (including Siargao - Bucas Grande archipelago), Surigao del Sur, the northernmost Davao Oriental, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental, northern part of Bukidnon, northeast of Lanao del Norte, northeast of Misamis Occidental and Camiguin.
From now until tomorrow, February 6, heavy rain of 200 mm will pour down on the areas of Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental and Camiguin.
The areas of South Leyte, Cebu, Bohol, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Dinagat Islands, North Surigao, West Misamis, North Lanao, South Lanao, Bukidnon, North Davao, Davao de Oro and East Davao Palawan Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras and Negros Western have rainfall of 100-200 mm.
The areas of Leyte, Eastern Samar, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, North Zamboanga, South Zamboanga, Zamboanga Sibugay, North Maguindanao, Cotabato and South Davao have rainfall of 50-100mm.
Heavy rain is likely to cause floods and landslides. People and tourists planning to visit the Philippines during this time should pay attention to weather forecasts. Check flight schedules and follow local instructions to avoid dangerous storms.
