MANILA, Philippines -- Typhoon Usagi, the fifth major storm to impact the region in three weeks, struck the northeastern Philippines on November 14, 2024. The storm prompted extensive evacuations and a United Nations appeal for emergency funds to assist affected rural communities.
With sustained winds reaching 175 kilometers per hour (109 miles per hour) and gusts up to 240 kph (149 mph), Usagi made landfall in the coastal town of Baggao, located in Cagayan province, which is known as the most populous agricultural area of Luzon. The typhoon is currently moving northwest and is expected to shift towards southern Taiwan overnight.
The Philippine weather agency has issued warnings regarding life-threatening tidal surges exceeding 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) in coastal regions of Cagayan and seven adjacent provinces. Authorities have advised all vessels to remain in port or seek immediate shelter due to the dangerous conditions.
Forecasters also indicated the possibility of another storm forming in the Pacific, which could impact the northern Philippines over the weekend.