Cagayan de Oro, Philippines – Tropical storm Phanfone (international name) enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at around 5 AM today, December 23. Dubbed as Typhoon Ursula (local name), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announce that the tropical storm is already 900 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. Ursula is moving west-northwest at 25 kilometers per hour (km/h), heading towards Eastern Visayas. Moreover, its current maximum winds are up to 65 km/h. However, PAGASA warns the gradual intensity of Ursula—eventually changing into a severe tropical storm before its landfall.

It is expected to landfall in Eastern Visayas between December 24 and 25, Christmas day. On the other hand, light to moderate with intermittent rainfall is expected in the regions of Mindanao due to the Easterlies.   Forecast Position:

• 24 Hour (December 24): 365 km East of Guiuan, Eastern Samar
• 48 Hour (December 25): 50 km East Northeast of Roxas City, Capiz
• 72 Hour (December 26): 230 km West Northwest of Coron, Palawan
• 96 Hour (December 27): 310 km North Northeast of Pagasa Island, Palawan
• 120 Hour (December 28): 295 km North of Pagasa Island, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR)

  —(Source: CDRRMD – Oro Rescue)