Tropical Depression Ramil Brings Rains and Winds to Luzon

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Tropical Depression Ramil is forecasted to bring widespread rains and strong winds across parts of Luzon and Eastern Visayas this weekend, as reported by PAGASA on Friday, October 17. Ramil was located 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with sustained winds of 55 kph and gusts up to 70 kph, moving southwest at 25 kph. It is expected to intensify into a tropical storm by Friday evening.

Ramil's path suggests it could make its first landfall over Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon, October 18, followed by another landfall in northern Quezon or southern Aurora by Saturday evening or Sunday morning, October 19. It will likely cross southern and Central Luzon throughout the day. PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja noted that Ramil might make two or three landfalls depending on its path, especially in Catanduanes and the eastern parts of Camarines Norte and Albay.

Estareja pointed out the possibility of track shifts, including a northward movement towards Aurora-Isabela or a southward route affecting areas like Northern Samar, Albay, and Camarines Sur. The potential for Ramil to impact Metro Manila and northern Calabarzon exists if it takes a more southern path, and it is anticipated to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 has been raised in several areas, including eastern and southern Quezon, Polillo Islands, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, and others. Northern Samar and parts of Eastern Samar and Samar are also under Signal No. 1. The highest expected wind signal is Signal No. 2, although a Signal No. 3 could be issued if Ramil intensifies to a severe tropical storm before landfall.

Heavy rains are forecasted from Friday until Saturday noon over places such as Catanduanes, Albay, and Northern Samar, with heavier downpours expected from Saturday noon to Sunday noon affecting areas like Isabela and Aurora. Additional rainfall is projected from Sunday noon to Monday noon in regions including Ilocos Norte and Apayao. Cloudy skies and frequent rains are predicted for Metro Manila starting Sunday as Ramil crosses Luzon.

Residents in low-lying and mountainous areas are advised to remain vigilant for potential flooding and landslides. Updates from officials are crucial as Ramil progresses.

Key Takeaways

• Ramil is expected to make landfall in Catanduanes and elsewhere by Saturday.
• Signal No. 1 is in effect for various regions; Signal No. 2 or 3 is possible.
• Heavy rainfall may cause flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-10-17