A notable milestone in a busy season
The Tropical Cyclone Tino (known locally as Bagyong Kalmaegi) is poised to become the 20th tropical cyclone to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this year—an unusually high count by regional norms. The storm entered PAR with sustained winds of about 84 km/h and gusts close to 105 km/h, and is tracking west-ward toward the central Philippines.
What the authorities are doing
The national weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is warning that Tino may intensify into typhoon status within the next 24 hours, and possibly stronger depending on its path and sea-surface conditions.
In advance of the storm’s impact, local governments in Visayas and Mindanao have suspended classes, government work and sea travel in vulnerable coastal zones. Schools and offices in provinces like Capiz have already been ordered shut down.
Risks and likely impacts
Even before landfall, Tino threatens significant hazards:
- Heavy rainfall of 50-100 mm or more that could trigger flash floods and landslides in mountainous or saturated areas of Eastern Visayas and Caraga.
- Strong winds and potential storm surge, especially in small islands and exposed coastal provinces. PAGASA has indicated marine travel should be avoided.
- Given the number of storms already this season, many communities are fatigued and infrastructure weakened—raising the risk of higher damage.
Why this year has been intense
The Philippines typically sees around 20 tropical storms or typhoons per year, but this season’s tally and the pace of impacts is above average. Some of the contributing factors include warmer seas, active monsoon interactions and a heightened disaster-preparedness cycle.
What to watch next
- The exact landfall point: Last projections suggest Tino may hit Caraga or the Eastern Visayas region by late Monday or early Tuesday.
- Upgrades to storm signals: Many localities are already under TCWS (Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal) No. 2 or higher; the alert level may escalate depending on Tino’s intensification.
- Relief and evacuation readiness: Local disaster offices are activating evacuation centres and mobilising assets; how swiftly they respond will be critical.
- Flooding triggers: With previous storms already having saturated many watersheds, runoff may be greater than in normal years—raising risk to rivers and low-lying communities.
The takeaway
Tino may be just the next in a long list of storms, but the fact it is the 20th one this year underscores the relentless nature of the typhoon season in the Philippines. With heavy rain, wind, and vulnerable terrain all in play, vigilance and preparedness remain vital. Authorities are sending the message: expect a serious event, act early, and stay safe.
