Typhoon Carina Intensifies, Batanes Under Signal No. 2, Metro Manila Faces Floods

BATANES — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 over parts of Batanes as Typhoon Carina gains strength. This weather disturbance has prompted warnings of gale-force winds and heavy rainfall across various regions, including widespread flooding in Metro Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, Typhoon Carina is now carrying maximum sustained winds of 140 km/h near its center with gusts up to 170 km/h. The typhoon is currently located 320 km east of Basco, Batanes, and about 405 km east-northeast of Aparri, Cagayan. The areas under TCWS No. 2 include Itbayat, Basco, Mahatao, Uyugan, and Ivana in Batanes, where gale-force winds are expected.

The rest of Batanes, along with parts of Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, Aurora, Polillo Islands, Calaguas Islands, and northern Catanduanes, are under TCWS No. 1, experiencing strong winds. The typhoon is also enhancing the southwest monsoon (habagat), bringing moderate to intense rainfall and gale-force gusts across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Despite its strengthening, PAGASA reports that Carina will remain far from the Philippine landmass and is expected to make landfall in the northern portion of Taiwan between Wednesday night and Thursday before exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

In Metro Manila, the heavy rainfall has resulted in flooding across several road sections, affecting the cities of Mandaluyong, Manila, Pasay, and Quezon. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) noted that as of noon Tuesday, several roads are only passable to heavy vehicles due to the accumulation of water. Notable flooded areas include Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong, Blumentritt Road in Manila, and the intersection of Taft Avenue and EDSA in Pasay, among others.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged the public to stay vigilant, follow official advisories, and take necessary precautions as conditions may change rapidly.