Tropical Storm Nando: Philippines Braces for Potential Super Typhoon

By John Paul Pajaro on 2025-09-20

As the Philippines enters the peak of its typhoon season in September 2025, all eyes are on Tropical Storm Nando (international name: Ragasa), which has been rapidly intensifying over the Philippine Sea. What started as a tropical depression has quickly escalated, prompting warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) about potential super typhoon status and significant impacts on northern Luzon. In this blog post, I'll dive into the latest updates on Nando's path, its forecasted strength, the expected effects on the country, and essential preparation tips for residents. With climate change amplifying storm intensities, understanding and preparing for such events is more crucial than ever.

The Formation and Current Status of Tropical Storm Nando

Tropical Storm Nando formed as the 14th tropical cyclone of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season and the fourth in September alone. It was first detected as a tropical depression on September 18, 2025, and upgraded to a tropical storm later that day. As of the latest PAGASA bulletin on September 20, 2025, Nando has intensified into a severe tropical storm, with maximum sustained winds of 100 km/h and gusts up to 125 km/h. Located approximately 780 km east of Casiguran, Aurora, it's moving west-northwest at 20 km/h, placing it firmly over the Philippine Sea.

The storm's rapid intensification is attributed to favorable conditions: warm sea surface temperatures and low wind shear in the Philippine Sea. PAGASA has noted that Nando is expected to become a typhoon within the next 12 hours and could reach super typhoon category by Monday, September 22. This escalation is alarming, as super typhoons bring devastating winds exceeding 220 km/h, heavy rainfall, and storm surges that can inundate coastal areas.

Forecasted Path and Timeline

According to PAGASA and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), Nando is tracking west-northwestward, with a potential loop pattern before shifting northwest. The storm is projected to approach extreme Northern Luzon, particularly the Babuyan Islands or Batanes, between Monday afternoon (September 22) and early Tuesday morning (September 23). Landfall is possible in the Babuyan Islands, or it may pass very close, bringing the eye's destructive core near the region.

Post-landfall or close approach, Nando is expected to continue westward, potentially exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Tuesday morning or noon, September 23. However, even after exiting PAR, its trough and enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) could linger, prolonging rainy conditions. Storm surge warnings may be issued for coastal waters in Northern Luzon as early as September 20, with waves reaching up to 14 meters in exposed areas.

Potential Impacts on the Philippines

Nando's intensification poses significant risks, especially for Northern Luzon. PAGASA has indicated that Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) could be raised as early as September 20, starting with Signal No. 1 over parts of Northern Luzon. If Nando reaches super typhoon strength, signals could escalate to No. 5—the highest level—indicating catastrophic winds that can destroy high-risk structures, uproot trees, and cause widespread power outages.

Rainfall: Heavy rains from Nando's trough and the enhanced habagat are expected to begin on September 21, affecting eastern Luzon initially and spreading westward. Regions like Bicol, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga could see scattered showers as early as September 20. By September 22-23, monsoon rains may drench Metro Manila and western Luzon, leading to flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.

Winds and Gusts: Strong to gale-force gusts are forecast for Ilocos Region, Zambales, Bataan, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas starting September 20. Coastal and upland areas will face the brunt, with potential for minimal to minor wind damage under Signal No. 1, escalating to severe under higher signals.

Sea Conditions: Moderate to rough seas are anticipated in Luzon's coastal waters from September 21, with waves up to 2.5-14 meters, posing dangers to small vessels and fishermen. Travel advisories may be issued, and ports could suspend operations.

Broader Effects: The storm coincides with other national events, such as the declaration of half-day work in government offices on September 22, potentially disrupting daily life, transportation, and the economy. In a country prone to typhoons, Nando highlights the ongoing challenges of climate resilience, with 2025's cyclones noted as potentially less intense overall but still hazardous.

Preparation and Safety Tips for Residents

With Nando's approach, proactive preparation is key. Here are essential tips based on PAGASA and NDCC guidelines:

• Monitor Updates: Stay tuned to PAGASA bulletins, local news, and apps like the PAGASA Weather app for real-time alerts.
• Secure Your Home: Reinforce roofs, windows, and doors; clear gutters to prevent flooding; and stock up on non-perishable food, water, medicines, and batteries for at least 72 hours.
• Evacuation Plans: Identify safe evacuation centers, especially in low-lying or coastal areas prone to surges. Follow local government directives promptly.
• Flood and Landslide Awareness: Avoid rivers, bridges, and hilly areas during heavy rain. If flooding occurs, move to higher ground immediately.
• Power and Communication: Charge devices, have backup power sources, and establish family communication plans in case of outages.
• Health Precautions: Maintain hygiene to prevent waterborne diseases; have first-aid kits ready for injuries.

For those in affected areas, community solidarity is vital—check on neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable. Government agencies like the DSWD and LGUs are preparing relief operations, but individual readiness can mitigate risks.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Typhoon Trends

Nando is part of a broader pattern in the 2025 typhoon season, where cyclones may not be as numerous but could be more intense due to warmer oceans fueled by climate change. The Philippines, one of the most disaster-prone countries, faces annual economic losses from typhoons exceeding billions of pesos. Events like Nando underscore the need for resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and sustainable policies. Initiatives like the People's Survival Fund and community-based disaster risk reduction are steps forward, but global action on emissions is essential.

In conclusion, as Tropical Storm Nando barrels toward potential super typhoon status, the Philippines must brace for impacts while leveraging technology and community strength for resilience. Stay safe, informed, and prepared—nature's fury is unpredictable, but our response can make all the difference.

(Word count: 1,256. This blog is based on the latest PAGASA updates and forecasts as of September 20, 2025. Always refer to official sources for real-time information.)

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