QUEZON CITY, PIA -- In time for the commemoration of the 157th National Meteorological Day, the DOST - Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Wednesday, March 23, revised the definition of "Super Typhoon".

Previously, a Super Typhoon was defined as a tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of more than 220 kph. Now, according to the updated definition, it should only have a maximum sustained winds of at least 185 kilometers per hour to be considered as a super typhoon. This is lower than its previous definition.

The state weather bureau also re-defined the rest of the tropical cyclone wind signals (TCWS) system into:

Tropical Depression: Less than 62 kilometers per hour maximum sustained winds Highest wind signal: 1

Tropical Storm: 62-88 kph maximum sustained winds Highest wind signal: 2

Severe Tropical Storm: 89-117 kph maximum sustained winds Highest wind signal: 3

Typhoon: 118-184 kph maximum sustained winds Highest wind signal: 4; and

Super Typhoon: 185 kph or higher maximum sustained winds Highest wind signal: 5

Moreover, the state weather bureau also decommissioned the names of three destructive storms in 2021: Jolina, Maring, and Odette. They will be replaced with Jacinto, Mirasol, and Opong, respectively.

Meanwhile, DOST-PAGASA warned the public that the number of days with gradual increase in temperature across the country will continue as the dry season prevails. Isolated thunderstorms are also likely to occur, especially in the afternoon or evening hours.

Further, the ongoing La Niña may still affect some parts of the country, which may significantly result in above normal rainfall conditions for April.

The public and all concerned government agencies are advised to take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress, optimize the daily use of water for personal and domestic consumption, and prevent any accompanying health risks associated with this climate condition. (AVS-PIA-NCR)