The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) has issued an alert on a tropical depression (TD) currently located north of Guam, warning that the system could rapidly intensify into a strong typhoon as it enters the Philippine Sea. Forecasters are closely monitoring the storm’s development, with potential impacts looming for areas such as Taiwan or Northern Luzon in the coming days.
Weather analyst Robert Speta, a trusted source for West Pacific typhoon updates, confirmed the warning in a recent statement, noting the increasing likelihood of significant intensification. “Well here we go again, for my Westpac friends. JTWC is now warning on the TD north of Guam and expecting it to intensify into a strong typhoon in the Philippine Sea,” Speta stated.
Currently, forecast models remain inconsistent regarding the system’s exact track and intensity. However, meteorologists are observing a strong high-pressure ridge to the north of the system. This atmospheric feature could steer the storm on a westward path, potentially putting Taiwan or Northern Luzon in its sights by the weekend or early next week.
“The guidance is still not on the same page as to how strong or where exactly, but given the high-pressure ridge to the north, a west runner towards Taiwan or Northern Luzon can’t be ruled out at all,” Speta added.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has not yet named the system, but is expected to issue updates as soon as it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). If it strengthens as forecasted, it will be assigned a local name, and warnings will follow depending on its expected landfall or proximity to land.
Communities in Northern Luzon and other potentially affected regions are advised to stay updated on official forecasts and begin preparing for possible severe weather. Heavy rains, strong winds, and coastal impacts may be felt even if the storm doesn’t make direct landfall.
As always, residents are encouraged to follow advisories from PAGASA and local disaster response authorities.