Tropical Storm Tino: A Potential Super Typhoon Threatens the Philippines
As of November 2, 2025, at 12:58 pm, the Philippines is on high alert as Tropical Storm Tino, formerly known as Kalmaegi, has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). This is the 20th tropical cyclone to impact the country this year, and it's bringing with it a host of potential dangers.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued an advisory, stating that Tino is currently located 955 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas. It's moving westward at a rapid pace of 30 kph, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 kph near its center and gusts of up to 105 kph. This powerful storm has prompted the hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 over Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, Surigao, and Bucas Grande Islands.
PAGASA has warned that areas under TCWS No. 1 could experience minimal to minor impacts from strong winds. However, the real concern lies in the surge of the northeast monsoon (amihan) coinciding with Tino's passage. This combination is expected to bring strong to gale-force gusts over several regions, including Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, and portions of Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, and Quezon. These areas should brace for potentially dangerous wind conditions on Sunday.
Tino's path is projected to take it westward over the next three days. It is expected to make its initial landfall over Eastern Samar or Dinagat Islands late on Monday evening or early Tuesday morning. From there, it will traverse through Visayas and northern Palawan before emerging over the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday morning or afternoon. This storm's trajectory is a cause for concern, as it could bring significant impacts to these regions.
The weather bureau forecasts that Tino will continue to intensify, potentially reaching typhoon category within the next 24 hours. And here's where it gets controversial: based on alternate scenarios and climatological data, there is a possibility that Tino could even reach super typhoon status. While its passage over the country may trigger a slight weakening, PAGASA emphasizes that Tino is expected to remain a powerful typhoon throughout its journey across the Philippines.
In anticipation of very rough sea conditions or worse, a gale warning may be raised over the eastern seaboard of Eastern Visayas and the Caraga Region on Sunday night or Monday morning. This is a critical warning for those living in coastal areas, as it indicates the potential for extremely hazardous marine conditions.
PAGASA has advised the public and disaster risk reduction and management offices to take all necessary precautions to protect lives and property. Those living in areas identified as highly or very highly susceptible to these hazards are urged to follow evacuation orders and other instructions from local officials. This is a critical time for preparedness and community resilience.
As we await the full impact of Tropical Storm Tino, it's important to stay informed and take all necessary precautions. The potential for this storm to reach super typhoon status is a reminder of the ever-present threat posed by tropical cyclones. Stay tuned for further updates and be sure to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. How are you preparing for this storm's arrival?
