Typhoon Uwan, known internationally as Fung-Wong, is rapidly intensifying east of the Philippines as it tracks toward a potential landfall along the country’s eastern seaboard late Sunday or early Monday, forecasters said.
The system strengthened quickly overnight, with maximum sustained winds jumping from 55 to 110 knots in less than six hours, according to satellite-based Dvorak analysis from the University of Wisconsin. That sharp rise marks a phase of rapid intensification, a process in which tropical cyclones strengthen dramatically over a short period.
Forecast agencies including PAGASA, JMA, and JTWC show high agreement on the projected path, bringing Uwan ashore near Casiguran, Aurora, before crossing Isabela and the Sierra Madre Mountains, then exiting into the Lingayen Gulf. PAGASA continues to expect a Super Typhoon at landfall, while other agencies estimate an equivalent Category 3 to 4 intensity.
Signal Force 3 warnings were already raised across Catanduanes and portions of the Bicol Region, with Signal 2 extending into Cagayan Valley. PAGASA said stronger warnings could be issued as the typhoon nears land.
The wide-spanning storm will bring a range of hazards across Luzon:
- Rainfall: 200–400 millimeters along mountain ranges, leading to possible flooding and landslides.
- Storm Surge: Up to three meters along the east coast; one to two meters along Pangasinan and Manila Bay due to wrap-around winds.
- Winds: Damaging gusts of 150–200 kilometers per hour near the center, extending outward several hundred kilometers.
Authorities warn that the impacts will extend far beyond the storm’s core. Heavy rain is expected as far south as Northern Samar and north into Cagayan Valley. The Magat Dam has already begun releasing water in preparation for rising river levels.
“Preparation tonight is key,” said meteorologist Robert Speta of Western Pacific Weather. “With rapid intensification underway, we’re looking at a potentially dangerous situation for eastern and northern Luzon.”
Uwan is expected to make landfall between 8 p.m. Sunday and 2 a.m. Monday, bringing widespread flooding, power disruptions, and possible coastal inundation before tracking west into the South China Sea.
Residents are urged to monitor official updates from PAGASA and local disaster management offices.