Philippines may be hit by a potential typhoon that could possibly bring in flooding rains and destructive winds this weekend before making a landfall at southern China and northern Vietnam.
Tropical Storm Sarika, as the name given, is expected to pass very close to the northern Bicol region of Luzon Island, Philippines possibly on Friday night until Saturday night.
As per the forecasters, Sarika, which has been categorized as a Hurricane 1 is expected to pose serious threat for the residents and property across Luzon causing torrential rains and damaging winds. However, it may make a landfall inclining up as a category 2 hurricane.
Swamping roads and mudslides are also expected in the Bicol region and east-central Luzon as rainfall of approximately 200-300 mm are likely to lash these regions. However, flooding is expected to be much more at the terrain as compared to plains.
Moreover, with Sarika expected to brace, threat of damaging winds and dangerous seas is also likely to increase. Winds gusting at a speed of 65-115 km/hr are also expected in the region. In the wake of this weather system, power outages and tree tumbling are also expected which could also cause minor damage to nearby residential areas as well.
The east coast of Luzon is also expected to suffer from coastal flooding as including the north where Sarika is expected to make a landfall sparing Manila. However, Manila can still expect rains amounting to 75-150 mm along with winds gusting at 80-95 km/hr.
However, there are chances of Sarika moving away from Luzon by Monday. Thereafter, it is expected to advance into the South China Sea.
As per the meteorologists, the mountainous terrain of Luzon is expected to weaken the tropical storm. However, before making a landfall over southeastern Asia, Sarika will be in its peak intensity. People residing in areas like Hainan Island, northern Vietnam are put on high alert against significant impact of typhoon Sarika particularly during the weekend.
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