Four Storms Hit West Pacific at the Same Time
For the first time since 1951, four storms are churning in November.
(SPOT.ph) The Philippines is no stranger to extreme weather, but what we’re experiencing now is unprecedented: four tropical cyclones simultaneously active in the West Pacific.
This marks the first time four storms are in the West Pacific at the same time for the month of November since records began in 1951, as confirmed by the Japan Meteorological Agency to CNN. Officials are now grappling with the implications of this rare weather event.
Typhoon Nika submerged 25 villages across six towns in Cagayan province and caused power outages in Tuguegarao City when it entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on November 9. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage.
Hot on Nika’s heels, Super Typhoon Ofel has brought Signal No. 5 warnings to parts of Cagayan, with destructive winds and dangerous storms expected to continue along the coast on November 14. Together, both typhoons have destroyed nearly P1 billion worth of infrastructure, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
While Typhoon Marce made its exit on November 8, Tropical Storm Pepito is currently hovering east of Eastern Visayas as it is forecasted to make landfall this weekend on November 16 or 17.
Also read: PAGASA Releases Typhoon Names in the Philippines for 2024
Is it normal to have this many storms and typhoons?
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), more tropical cyclones enter the PAR than any other region in the world. On average, about 20 tropical cyclones form every year, with around eight to nine making direct landfall in the Philippines. The peak of the typhoon season runs from July through October.
This intense storm activity is occurring even without the influence of the southwest monsoon or habagat, which has already exited the Philippines in October. It’s what strengthened previous typhoons like Carina and Egay, leading to prolonged periods of heavy rainfall in mid-2024.
As of November, government aid for typhoon victims has reached over P1 billion.
The United Nations (UN) has also launched an emergency appeal in light of the tragedies, seeking $32.9 million to assist approximately 210,000 individuals in need over the next three months. This support will provide food, water, shelter, and medical care to the most vulnerable populations.
Also read: PSA: Employers Can’t Force You to Work During a Typhoon