Twin Tropical Depressions Challenge Philippines' Weather Resilience
The Philippines faces dual weather challenges as Tropical Depression Mirasol exits Northern Luzon while Tropical Depression Nando enters PAR, with potential super typhoon development ahead.
Satellite image showing Tropical Depressions Mirasol and Nando affecting the Philippine Area of Responsibility
As the Philippines continues to strengthen its national preparedness and infrastructure systems, two tropical depressions - Mirasol and Nando - are testing the country's weather resilience capabilities.
Mirasol Exits Northern Luzon
Tropical Depression Mirasol departed Northern Luzon's landmass Wednesday evening, September 17, after making landfall in Casiguran, Aurora at 3:20 am. The system, now over Pagudpud's coastal waters in Ilocos Norte, maintains maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h with gustiness reaching 75 km/h.
Ongoing Impact and Safety Measures
Despite leaving land, Mirasol continues to pose significant risks. PAGASA forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall (50-100 millimeters) for Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga, Apayao, Abra, and the Ilocos region. This weather system's effects mirror the challenges faced in recent infrastructure resilience efforts across the nation.
Maritime Warning
Moderate to rough seas are expected in various seaboards, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters in some areas. Small vessels are advised to take precautionary measures or avoid sailing entirely.
Nando Enters PAR as New Threat
As the Philippines manages one weather system, Tropical Depression Nando has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), located 1,140 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon. This development comes as the nation continues to enhance its territorial monitoring and response capabilities.
Potential Super Typhoon Warning
PAGASA warns that Nando could intensify into a super typhoon by Saturday, potentially requiring Signal No. 5 warnings. The system is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rainfall starting Sunday or Monday.
National Preparedness Status
These weather systems mark the Philippines' 13th and 14th tropical cyclones for 2025, reaching the upper limit of PAGASA's September estimates. Local authorities remain vigilant as scattered rain and thunderstorms affect parts of Luzon, Western Visayas, the Negros Island Region, and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.