Severe tropical storm “Nina” has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at about 3 am on Friday.
It is currently located 960 kilometers east of Guian, Eastern Samar.
“Nina” carries maximum sustained winds of up to 95 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 120 kph.
It is forecast to move west northwest at 25 kph.
PAGASA weather forecaster Obet Badrina says, the storm has no effect on the country’s weather right now.
Its full effect will be felt from about 5 pm to 8 pm on Christmas day, Sunday.
"Nina" is expected to make landfall in Bicol on Sunday afternoon or evening.
Badrina warns, the weather disturbance may become a typhoon that can reach up to Signal Number 3.
“Nina” is expected to bring rains in Metro Manila on Sunday.
Badrina says, Catanduanes may bear the brunt of the storm.
“Nina” is also set to cross Quezon, Bicol, Samar and the provinces in CALABARZON and MIMAROPA.
It is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Based on PAGASA's historical record, "Nina" is the seventh storm to hit the country on Christmas day.
