Philippine Typhoons

This set of flashcards covers important terms and definitions related to typhoons, weather forecasting, and precautionary measures in the Philippines.

Typhoon

A tropical storm that forms in the Northwest Pacific.

Hurricane

A tropical storm that forms in the Atlantic or Northeast Pacific.

Cyclone

A tropical storm that forms in the Indian Ocean and South Pacific.

PAGASA

The Philippine government agency that monitors weather, climate, and typhoons.

Super Typhoon

A classification for typhoons with central winds of 185 kph or higher.

TCWS

Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals; a system used by PAGASA to communicate typhoon threats.

Storm Signal #1

Indicates winds of 39-61 kph expected within at least 36 hours, with minimal threat to life and property.

Storm Signal #2

Indicates winds of 62-88 kph expected within at least 24 hours, with minor to moderate damage possible.

Storm Signal #3

Indicates winds of 89-117 kph expected within at least 18 hours, with severe damage expected to makeshift structures.

Storm Signal #4

Indicates winds of 118-184 kph expected within at least 12 hours, with severe damage to light structures.

Storm Signal #5

Indicates winds of 185 kph or higher expected within 12 hours, with catastrophic damage likely.

Rainfall Warning - Yellow

Be alert: Flooding is possible in low areas (7.5-15 mm/hr).

Rainfall Warning - Orange

Be prepared: Flooding is threatening (15-30 mm/hr).

Rainfall Warning - Red

Take action: Severe flooding is expected (more than 30 mm/hr).

Barometer

An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure.

Thermometer

An instrument that measures air temperature.

Sling Psychrometer

Measures relative humidity using two thermometers.

Radar

Detects weather using radio waves to track cyclones.

Government Agencies in Typhoon Response

Various agencies including DOST, NDRRMC, DILG, and DSWD that provide support during typhoons.