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SAMUEL LEAVES PAR, BUT DANGEROUS SEAS CONTINUE
Typhoon Cempaka, formerly Samuel, remained outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility early this morning. PAGASA's 4 a.m. forecast placed it 1,590 kilometers east northeast of Northern Luzon as of 3 a.m. The northeast monsoon, or amihan, was affecting Luzon, while easterlies were affecting the rest of the country.
The 5 a.m. gale warning covered Batanes, the Babuyan Islands, the listed northern and eastern coasts of mainland Cagayan, and northern Ilocos Norte. It forecast rough to very rough seas with waves of 2.8 to 5 meters in those areas. The warning also covered specified western Ilocos Norte coasts and Ilocos Sur, with waves of 2.8 to 4.5 meters. Its coverage extends to sea areas within 30 nautical miles of the named coasts.
PAGASA advised small seacraft, including motorbancas of any type or tonnage, to remain in port or seek safe harbor. For larger vessels, it stressed the need for experience, proper equipment and precautions. These warnings concern specific coastal areas, not all Philippine waters.
The morning forecast also warned of possible flash floods or landslides from amihan rains in Aurora, Quezon and Camarines Norte. Samuel's exit therefore does not settle whether a fishing trip, crossing or journey along a rain-affected route is safe. Check the warning for the actual area, local port restrictions and the operator's confirmed sailing status.
WHAT TO WATCH
PAGASA's next gale warning, scheduled for 5 p.m. unless an intermediate warning is issued, and any Coast Guard or port suspension affecting the intended route. Check the latest local rain advisories as well as the sea forecast.