Tino continues to intensify, puts landfall areas to reach signal 4

As of 5:00 PM today, Typhoon ‘Tino’ (Kalmaegi) has strengthened as it moves westward at 20 km/h toward Caraga and Eastern Visayas after initially making landfall at peak intensity, with 150 to 165 kph winds in areas of southern Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Dinagat Islands.

PAGASA raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 over Dinagat Islands, Siargao, and Bucas Grande Islands in Surigao del Norte on Monday afternoon, Nov. 3, prompting heavy to torrential rains, violent winds, and possible storm surges.

It also reported that Signal No. 4 may be hoisted across Western Visayas and parts of northern Palawan by early Wednesday.

Visayas region braces for Typhoon Tino as 2,700 public schools suspend classes and authorities remain on full alert.

“DepEd Region 6, through the leadership of OIC Regional Director Cristito Eco, activated all our SDOs and all school DRRM focal persons to prioritize, at all times, the safety and well-being of personnel and learners, ensure learning continuity, and safeguard school properties,” Department of Education information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. said.

Many residents are alarmed as Tino follows a similar path to Super Typhoons Yolanda and Odette.

“The potential impact mirrors the intensity and path of Yolanda and Odette. We urge all local DRRMCs to prepare for worst-case scenarios, ensure timely evacuation, and coordinate closely with national agencies,” council chair and Office of Civil Defense (OCD-6) Regional Director Raul E. Fernandez said.

Tino, which is this year’s 20th tropical cyclone, is forecast to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Thursday morning.