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Advocates Philippines
Tropical Depression Crising Holds Strength As It Nears Northern Luzon: Public Urged To Stay Alert
Photo credit: DOST-PAGASA
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) continues to monitor Tropical Depression Crising, which maintained its strength this afternoon while meandering over the sea east of Aurora province. As of 4:00 PM today, July 17, the center of Crising was located approximately 545 km east of Baler, Aurora, or 335 km northeast of Virac, Catanduanes, carrying maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h, gusts of up to 70 km/h, and moving west-northwest at 30 km/h.

At present, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 remains in effect over several areas in Northern and Central Luzon, parts of the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, and the Bicol Region. Residents under Signal No. 1 can expect strong winds within the next 36 hours, with minimal to minor threats to life and property. PAGASA advises the public to exercise caution, particularly in coastal and elevated areas where winds can feel stronger.

Rain, Winds, and Waves: What to Expect

While Crising is still categorized as a tropical depression, PAGASA projects it could intensify into a tropical storm tonight or early tomorrow morning, and possibly reach severe tropical storm status by Saturday. A landfall over mainland Cagayan is possible by tomorrow evening, after which it is expected to cross the northern portion of Northern Luzon and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday afternoon.

Residents in areas under TCWS No. 1 — including Batanes, Cagayan including the Babuyan Islands, Isabela, northern Aurora, and portions of Ilocos, Cordillera, and Bicol regions — should prepare for strong winds and occasional heavy rain. The southwest monsoon is also enhancing winds and bringing gusty conditions to much of Luzon, Visayas, and parts of Mindanao over the next three days. Coastal flooding is possible, with storm surges of 1.0 to 2.0 meters anticipated along exposed low-lying coasts of Cagayan, Babuyan Islands, Isabela, and Ilocos Norte.

Sea conditions remain hazardous, especially along the eastern seaboards of Northern Luzon and parts of Palawan, Visayas, and Mindanao. Waves could reach up to 4.0 meters in some areas, and PAGASA advises small boats and inexperienced mariners to avoid going to sea until conditions improve.

Preparedness and Vigilance Encouraged

Given the potential for further intensification and heavy rainfall in the coming days, disaster risk reduction and management offices, as well as residents in highly susceptible areas, are urged to take precautionary measures and be ready to follow evacuation or other safety instructions from local officials when necessary.

The public is reminded to stay informed through official updates from PAGASA and local authorities, particularly for more localized warnings on heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and flood advisories. The next bulletin on Crising will be issued at 11:00 PM tonight.

For now, residents are advised to remain vigilant, secure loose outdoor objects, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in areas already affected by inclement weather. As Crising approaches, preparedness remains key to minimizing its impact.
Jul 17, 2025
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