A severe weather alert is in place as Tropical Storm Kalmaegi, also known as Tino, is poised to make landfall in the region between Leyte and Southern Leyte early tomorrow morning. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reports that favorable environmental conditions, including high Oceanic Heat Content (OHC) and low wind shear, could lead to the rapid intensification of the storm.
Forecast models suggest that Kalmaegi could strengthen into a severe tropical storm, possibly reaching the intensity levels of a Category 3 or 4 hurricane. The current outlook over the next 48 hours indicates that the storm will shift towards a more westward trajectory, with expectations of it intensifying into a high-end Category 1 Typhoon by later today.
As early as Tuesday morning, the core of Tino is slated to make landfall between Silago and Abuyog in Leyte, after which it will move across Leyte Island and the Camotes Islands. The storm is projected to travel at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour (kph), potentially attaining winds between 150 and 165 km/h at its peak intensity during landfall.
There are serious concerns regarding life-threatening storm surges associated with the storm, particularly in Eastern Samar where surges could exceed 3 meters. Areas such as Dinagat Islands, Leyte, and others may experience surges ranging from 2.1 to 3 meters. The storm is expected to move across the Visayas region and northern Palawan before exiting into the West Philippine Sea around Wednesday.
As communities prepare for the adverse impacts of Kalmaegi, authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to stay updated with local advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.