Typhoon Verbena continues to hold its strength as it moves across the West Philippine Sea, according to the latest 5 PM advisory issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The weather bureau reported that the storm’s center was last spotted approximately 230 kilometers northeast of Pag-asa Island in Kalayaan, Palawan.
PAGASA said Verbena is moving in a west to west-northwest direction, steering the system toward the northern portion of the Kalayaan Island Group. The weather agency noted that while Verbena remains strong, it is not expected to directly affect major landmasses in the country.
However, the typhoon continues to enhance the southwest monsoon, which may bring occasional rains and gusty conditions over parts of the western sections of Southern Luzon and Visayas. PAGASA warned fishermen and small sea vessels in affected areas to exercise caution due to potentially rough sea conditions.
Based on its current trajectory, Verbena is forecast to traverse the West Philippine Sea through tonight and tomorrow afternoon. The storm’s path keeps it offshore but close enough to influence local weather systems until it moves farther away from the archipelago.
PAGASA added that Typhoon Verbena may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) later this evening or early Thursday morning. Once outside PAR, the system is expected to continue moving away from the Philippines, gradually weakening as it interacts with cooler waters. The public is advised to monitor further bulletins for updates.–Cali Demi
