Typhoon Mekkhala (No. 7): Minimal Impact Expected on Cebu

Tropical Storm Mekkhala has formed over the far eastern waters of the Philippines. It has not yet entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), but it is expected to enter tomorrow (June 21). Once it enters PAR, it is expected to be given the local name “Francisco.”

The Philippines assigns a separate local name to any typhoon that forms within or enters its area of responsibility — a system introduced to raise disaster awareness among local residents.

Mekkhala is currently moving northwest. It is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines, and it is forecast to develop into a fairly strong typhoon.

For Cebu, June 20–21 will mark the period when the storm passes closest to the area, but the impact is expected to be minimal. Weather in Cebu was good on June 20, and conditions are expected to remain fine tomorrow as well.

Source: PAGASA Tropical Cyclone Advisory