PAGASA Sounds Alarm: 'Uwan Could Redraw Coastlines' if Super Typhoon Hits Full Force
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration ([translate: PAGASA]) has issued a serious warning about Super Typhoon Uwan, which may cause catastrophic damage and significantly alter coastlines.
Previously known as Typhoon Fung-Wong, Uwan is rapidly intensifying and expected to reach super-typhoon strength by Sunday evening or early Monday, threatening a vast area of the Philippines.
Extent of the Threat
The storm stretches from the northernmost province of Batanes down to Bohol in the Visayas, putting a wide swath of the country at risk.
PAGASA reports maximum sustained winds of around 120 km/h with gusts up to 150 km/h, accompanied by the highest Wind Signal warnings.
Potential Impact on Coastlines
The agency highlights the danger of storm surges exceeding 3 metres in low-lying coastal areas of eastern Luzon, including Quezon (Polillo Islands), Catanduanes, Albay, and Sorsogon.
"The statement 'redraw coastlines' stems from the agency's warning of storm surges up to and exceeding 3 metres in low-lying coastal areas of eastern Luzon."
This surge, combined with intense winds and rainfall, can flood villages, erode shorelines, and change local topographies drastically.
A report by International Business Times UK states, "A storm surge of that magnitude, combined with strong winds and heavy rainfall, has the capacity to transform beachfronts, flood entire villages, erode shorelines, and shift topographies."
Areas Most at Risk
- Quezon (Polillo Islands)
- Catanduanes
- Albay
- Sorsogon
Communities in these regions should prepare for significant impact and potential relocations in the aftermath.
Summary
Super Typhoon Uwan poses a severe threat to the Philippines, with PAGASA warning it could reshape coastal areas due to extreme storm surges and powerful winds.
Author's summary: Super Typhoon Uwan threatens to cause devastating coastal changes and widespread destruction across the Philippines, demanding urgent preparedness and response.
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