Benison Estareja, an official with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), warned of widespread flooding and landslides in mountainous areas due to Typhoon Bualoi (locally known as Typhoon Opong) during a press conference today.

As of 3 p.m. today, PAGASA reported that Bualoi was located approximately 245 km east of Guluan, Eastern Samar, moving westward at 15 km/h. The typhoon is projected to hit the central Philippines on the morning of 26/9.

Residents in Bicol, central Philippines, bring their boats ashore on 25/9 in preparation for Typhoon Bualoi. Photo: CSB Bicol

Residents in Bicol, central Philippines, bring their boats ashore on 25/9 in preparation for Typhoon Bualoi. Photo: CSB Bicol

Authorities said Bualoi could generate waves up to 3 meters high, posing a threat to coastal communities. PAGASA also warned of heavy rainfall in northern Philippines.

"Prolonged rain could trigger further flooding and landslides, particularly in areas already saturated by Typhoon Ragasa," said Harold Cabreros, an official with the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard, approximately 1,500 people are stranded at ports in Bicol, the region where Bualoi is expected to make landfall. Authorities have closed schools and canceled several flights in affected areas.

Forecast track and affected areas of Typhoon Bualoi at 7 a.m. on 25/9. Photo: NCHMF

Forecast track and affected areas of Typhoon Bualoi at 7 a.m. on 25/9. Photo: NCHMF

Super Typhoon Ragasa swept through the northern Philippines earlier this week, leaving at least 9 people dead and forcing thousands to evacuate. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated on 24/9 that authorities had prepared food, medicine, and other essential supplies in areas expected to be in Bualoi's path.

The Philippines experiences an average of 20 typhoons annually, trapping millions of people in vulnerable areas in a cycle of poverty. In 2013, Super Typhoon Haiyan claimed the lives of over 6,000 people in the country.

After crossing the Philippines, Bualoi is forecast to enter the South China Sea, becoming the tenth typhoon this year. Its maximum sustained winds are expected to reach level 12, with gusts up to level 15, on the morning of 27/9.

Huyen Le (AFP, Inquirer)