Tropical Storm Kristine has decelerated after its landfall at Divilacan, Isabela on Thursday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The storm is now passing northwest over Northern Luzon, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.
As of 4 a.m. yesterday, the center of Kristine was near Tumauini, Isabela. The storm has packed sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, with gusts reaching as much as 160 kph. Kristine is still moving west-northwest at a speed of 15 kph.
Said PAGASA weather forecaster Benison Estareja indicated that the storm would traverse northern Luzon throughout the day. It may re-emerge over west waters of the Ilocos Region by Thursday afternoon or evening. Kristine is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility as it heads toward the West Philippine Sea by Friday afternoon.
As Northern Luzon prepares for the onslaught of Kristine, PAGASA also monitored a new LPA outside the PAR. Estareja said that there’s a high possibility this weather system will deepen and become a tropical depression in the next 24 hours. The LPA is expected to reach the Philippine region early next week.
Authorities are taking a keen interest in both systems and are advising people to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and warnings.
