Typhoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has been tracking across the Philippine Sea since late June 2026, bringing with it a series of weather alerts and precautions across Northern Luzon. Initially classified as a severe tropical storm, Francisco intensified into a typhoon on Sunday, June 21, and later escalated further into a super typhoon on Monday, June 22. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the typhoon's maximum sustained winds reached 185 kilometers per hour (kph) with gusts of up to 230 kph. Despite its formidable strength, Francisco remained offshore, positioned approximately 410 kilometers east of Aparri, Cagayan, as of early Tuesday, June 23. Its movement was characterized by a slow northwest trajectory at a speed of 10 kph, which allowed for extended monitoring and preparation efforts among affected regions.
Throughout the week leading up to June 23, Francisco steadily gained strength, with Pagasa forecasting that it would reach its peak intensity by Tuesday. This prediction proved accurate, as the typhoon maintained its super typhoon status, albeit with a slight weakening trend as it moved further north. Pagasa indicated that Francisco would gradually lose strength while remaining within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR), before ultimately exiting the region by Thursday evening or Friday morning. Although landfall was deemed highly unlikely, the typhoon's presence prompted heightened vigilance and preparedness in areas potentially affected by its peripheral effects.
The impact of Francisco was primarily felt through the enhancement of the southwest monsoon, commonly referred to as "habagat." This seasonal wind pattern, typically associated with summer rains, saw an intensification due to Francisco's influence, resulting in widespread cloud cover, rain showers, and thunderstorms across multiple regions. Areas such as Batanes, Cagayan, Aurora, Isabela, and parts of the Visayas and Mindanao experienced moderate to heavy rainfall, with accumulations ranging between 50 to 100 millimeters. These conditions raised concerns about potential flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous and low-lying areas prone to such hazards. Pagasa issued advisories urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions against these weather-related threats.
In response to the typhoon's approach, authorities implemented several safety measures to mitigate risks. The Philippine Coast Guard suspended sea travel in Cagayan and Batanes waters, citing hazardous maritime conditions including rough seas and reduced visibility. These restrictions applied to all vessel sizes, emphasizing the danger posed by high waves, with reports indicating wave heights of up to 4.5 meters along the eastern coastlines of Batanes and the Babuyan Islands. Additionally, smaller vessels were cautioned against venturing into waters off the northeastern coast of Cagayan, where waves could reach up to 3.5 meters. Such actions underscored the importance of maritime safety protocols during periods of intense weather activity.
The typhoon also influenced wind patterns across the archipelago, with Pagasa issuing Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) to warn of impending strong winds. TCWS No. 1 was in effect for Batanes, the northeastern portion of Cagayan, and the eastern part of the Babuyan Islands, signifying the expectation of winds ranging from 39 to 61 kph accompanied by intermittent rains. While the likelihood of upgrading to higher signal levels, such as TCWS No. 2, was considered, Pagasa stated that such scenarios were becoming increasingly improbable due to Francisco's projected path. Nonetheless, the potential for stronger winds persisted, necessitating continuous monitoring and readiness among affected communities.
Beyond immediate weather impacts, Francisco's passage highlighted broader implications related to climate resilience and disaster management. The typhoon served as a reminder of the vulnerability of coastal and island communities to extreme weather events, reinforcing the need for robust infrastructure, effective early warning systems, and community-based preparedness initiatives. Authorities emphasized the importance of adhering to official advisories and guidelines to minimize risks and ensure public safety amidst such natural phenomena.
Looking ahead, Pagasa anticipated that Francisco would eventually curve toward Japan's Ryukyu Islands and the surrounding waters, marking its departure from the Philippine area of responsibility. However, the typhoon's lingering influence on regional weather patterns was expected to persist, with continued monitoring required to assess any residual effects. As the situation evolved, Pagasa committed to providing timely updates and guidance to support ongoing preparedness and response efforts across the nation.
16 reports
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter11 days agoTyphoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has slightly weakened but remains a typhoon as it moves northward over the Philippine Sea. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Francisco now has maximum sustained winds of 165 km/h and gusts up to 205 km/h. It is expected to continue weakening but will stay within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) until exiting by Thursday evening or Friday morning. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 remains in effect for Batanes and parts of Cagayan. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Higos, currently outside PAR, is moving westward toward Guam with sustained winds of 65 km/h and gusts up to 85 km/h. Higos is projected to enter PAR by Thursday evening and will be locally named 'Gardo' before exiting by Friday.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual report on meteorological conditions and does not present any political opinions, framing, or biased language. It focuses solely on the movement and impact of two tropical systems, Francisco and Higos, and their effects on specific regions in the Philippines.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter11 days ago Francisco weakens into typhoon, enhances ‘habagat’Super Typhoon Francisco, also known internationally as Mekkhala, has weakened from a super typhoon to a regular typhoon over the Philippine Sea. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Francisco now has maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h, down from 185 km/h earlier in the day, with gusts reaching up to 215 km/h. The typhoon is moving northwest at 10 km/h and is currently located 375 km east of Calayan, Cagayan. Although Francisco is not expected to make landfall, it is intensifying the 'habagat' or southwest monsoon, bringing rain across the country. A Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 remains in effect for Batanes and parts of Cagayan. Another tropical storm, outside the Philippine area of responsibility, has formed but is unlikely to directly impact the country this week.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual report on the movement and strength of Typhoon Francisco and its effects on weather patterns in the Philippines. It does not present any political opinions, biases, or framing that would indicate a leaning towards either side of a political spectrum. The content is a通报
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter11 days ago Sea travel in Cagayan suspended due to Super Typhoon FranciscoSuper Typhoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has led to the temporary suspension of sea travel in Cagayan and Batanes waters. The Philippine Coast Guard issued the suspension on Monday to ensure traveler safety amid deteriorating sea conditions, including rough seas and poor visibility. Authorities warn that these conditions pose significant risks, especially for small vessels. Boat operators have been instructed to comply with the suspension until further notice. Similar restrictions were also imposed in parts of Isabela and Cagayan. Despite the typhoon, current conditions in Batanes remain under monitoring.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a natural disaster-related decision by the Philippine Coast Guard, focusing on safety measures and weather impacts. There is no evident ideological framing, partisan emphasis, or biased language. The content is neutral, presenting factual information about the suspension of se
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter12 days ago Super typhoon Francisco moves slowly near Cagayan; Signal No. 1 still upSuper Typhoon Francisco has moved slowly near Cagayan, maintaining its strength with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts up to 230 km/h. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 for parts of Northern Luzon, including Batanes, portions of Cagayan, and the eastern part of the Babuyan Islands. Francisco is expected to slow further before curving away from the country, potentially intensifying or maintaining its strength before gradually weakening. Rainfall and gusty winds are anticipated in affected regions, while the southwest monsoon (habagat) is enhancing weather conditions across various parts of the Philippines. A separate tropical depression is being monitored outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility but is not expected to directly impact the country.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster, focusing on meteorological data, warnings, and safety advisories. There is no evident ideological framing, biased language, or emphasis on political aspects. The content is primarily informational and neutral in tone.
RapplerIndependentCenter12 days agoTyphoon Francisco (Mekkhala) weakened back into a typhoon over the Philippine Sea on June 23, 2026, after previously intensifying into a super typhoon. As of 10 am on Tuesday, it was located 375 kilometers east northeast of Aparri, Cagayan, moving northwest at 10 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h and gusts up to 215 km/h. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) predicts Francisco will continue to weaken but remains a typhoon within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). While it is unlikely to make landfall in the Philippines, it is expected to recurve toward Japan's Ryukyu Islands. Heavy rains are affecting extreme northern Luzon, with moderate to heavy rainfall forecasted in Batanes, Cagayan, and other regions. Additional rainfall from the southwest monsoon could lead to floods and landslides in affected areas.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual report on the movement and impact of Typhoon Francisco, focusing on meteorological data and warnings issued by PAGASA. There is no evident ideological framing, biased language, or selective emphasis that would indicate a political lean. The content is primarily focused
RapplerIndependentCenter12 days ago Batanes, Cagayan face heavy rain as Francisco becomes super typhoonSuper Typhoon Francisco (Mekkhala) intensified into a super typhoon on June 22, 2026, with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching 230 km/h. As of 4 am on June 23, it was located 410 kilometers east of Aparri, Cagayan, moving west-northwest at 10 km/h. While it is unlikely to make landfall, it is causing moderate to heavy rainfall across Batanes and Cagayan on June 23, with similar conditions expected through June 25. Additional scattered rains and thunderstorms are forecast for Aurora, Isabela, and other regions influenced by the southwest monsoon. PAGASA has issued warnings for potential flooding and landslides in affected areas and noted that Signal No. 1 remains in effect for certain regions, with possible upgrades depending on the typhoon's path.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster, focusing on meteorological data and safety advisories from PAGASA. There is no indication of ideological framing, biased language, or emphasis on political aspects. The content is primarily informative and neutral.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter12 days ago Francisco now a super typhoonTyphoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has intensified into a super typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching 230 km/h. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Francisco was located 440 km east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, moving west-northwest at 15 km/h. Forecasters predict further intensification over the next 12 hours before a weakening trend is expected due to less favorable environmental conditions. The typhoon is projected to leave the Philippine area of responsibility by June 26 and remain distant from the mainland during the forecast period. A minor westward adjustment in its path remains possible. Currently, only Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 is in effect for parts of Batanes and northeastern Cagayan.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual report on the development and trajectory of Typhoon Francisco, using official data from Pagasa. There is no evident framing or slant in the language, sourcing, or emphasis. The content is purely informational and does not take a stance on any political issue.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter13 days ago Signal No. 1 in 3 areas as Typhoon Francisco intensifiesTyphoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has intensified and prompted the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) to issue Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 for three areas in Northern Luzon. The typhoon, located approximately 715 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, has maximum sustained winds of 140 kilometers per hour with gusts reaching 170 kph. The signal applies to Batanes, parts of Cagayan, and sections of the Babuyan Islands. Pagasa forecasts Francisco will continue to strengthen, potentially reaching peak intensity by Tuesday, and may approach extreme Northern Luzon if its path shifts westward. The typhoon is expected to move west-northwest until Tuesday, slow down, and exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Friday.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster and does not present any political opinions, biases, or controversial perspectives. It focuses solely on meteorological data and warnings issued by an official source.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter13 days ago Pagasa: Francisco intensifies into typhoonSevere Tropical Storm 'Francisco' (internationally named Mekkhala) has intensified into a typhoon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). The typhoon formed around 2 p.m. within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) and was last recorded 1,090 kilometers east of Central Luzon with sustained winds of 120 km/h and gusts up to 150 km/h. It is moving west-northwestward at 25 km/h and is expected to reach peak intensity by Tuesday, June 23. While it is unlikely to directly impact the Philippines on Sunday, Pagasa warned that heavy rains from the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) may begin on Monday. Additionally, a low-pressure area (LPA) is being monitored outside PAR but has a low chance of developing into a tropical depression.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a meteorological event without any overt ideological framing, editorializing, or biased language. It focuses solely on the technical aspects of the storm's development and its projected path, relying on official sources such as Pagasa for data and advis
RapplerIndependentCenter13 days ago Signal No. 1 up as Typhoon Francisco intensifies again, acceleratesTyphoon Francisco (Mekkhala) intensified on June 22, 2026, with maximum sustained winds reaching 140 km/h and gusts up to 170 km/h. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued Signal No. 1 for several regions, including Batanes, parts of Cagayan, and the Babuyan Islands, providing residents with 36 hours of advance warning. The typhoon is moving west-northwest at 30 km/h and may approach extreme northern Luzon in the coming days. Heavy rains and potential flooding or landslides were warned for Batanes and Cagayan on June 23 and 24. Additionally, the southwest monsoon, enhanced by the typhoon, brought strong winds and scattered thunderstorms across various regions.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster, focusing on meteorological data and warnings from PAGASA. There is no indication of ideological framing, biased language, or selective sourcing. The content is purely informational and does not engage with political issues, policies,
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter13 days ago Francisco now a typhoon — PagasaTyphoon Francisco, known internationally as Mekkhala, has intensified into a typhoon within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR). The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Francisco reached typhoon status with sustained winds of 120 km/h and gusts up to 150 km/h. It is currently located 820 km northeast of Eastern Visayas and is moving west-northwestward at 25 km/h. Pagasa warned that Wind Signal No. 1 might be issued for parts of Cagayan, Babuyan Islands, and Batanes by Monday morning. While Francisco is expected to remain over the Philippine Sea, there is a possibility of a closer approach to Extreme Northern Luzon. Additionally, Pagasa mentioned that Francisco is unlikely to directly impact the country's weather on Sunday but cautioned about heavy rains from the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) starting Monday. Another low-pressure area (LPA) outside the PAR is being monitored, with a low chance of developing into a tropical depression.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster, focusing on meteorological updates and warnings from an official source. There is no indication of ideological framing, biased language, or selective emphasis on particular viewpoints. The content remains neutral and informative.
RapplerIndependentCenter13 days ago Typhoon Francisco strengthens further while moving east of Central LuzonTyphoon Francisco (Mekkhala) has strengthened, with maximum sustained winds reaching 130 km/h and gusts up to 160 km/h. The typhoon is currently located 875 kilometers east of Central Luzon and is moving west-northwest at 25 km/h. While it is unlikely to make direct landfall, there is a possibility of a closer approach to extreme Northern Luzon if its path shifts further west. The typhoon is expected to intensify the southwest monsoon, leading to heavy rains and thunderstorms across parts of Luzon and the Visayas starting Monday, June 22. Weather warnings include potential Signal No. 1 for areas like Cagayan, Babuyan Islands, and Batanes, along with strong winds affecting multiple regions over the next few days. Rough seas are also being reported along certain coastal areas.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about the typhoon's movement, intensity, and associated weather impacts without any apparent ideological framing or biased language. It focuses on meteorological data and official forecasts from PAGASA, maintaining neutrality.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter13 days ago Severe Tropical Storm Francisco nears typhoon category – PagasaSevere Tropical Storm Francisco, also known internationally as Mekkhala, is approaching typhoon status according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). As of Sunday, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour with gusts reaching up to 135 kph. It was located approximately 1,170 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon and was moving northwestward at a speed of 25 kph. Pagasa predicted that Francisco would continue to intensify and potentially reach typhoon classification by Sunday. The agency also indicated that the storm is expected to reach its peak intensity by Monday or Tuesday.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about the development of a tropical storm and does not present any biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. It focuses on meteorological updates provided by an official source without taking a stance or emphasizing any particular perspective.
RapplerIndependentCenter14 days ago Francisco now a typhoon, expected to enhance southwest monsoonTyphoon Francisco (Mekkhala) has intensified from a severe tropical storm into a typhoon with maximum sustained winds reaching 120 km/h and gusts up to 150 km/h. Located 1,055 kilometers east of Central Luzon, the typhoon is moving west-northwest at 25 km/h. PAGASA warns that Francisco may approach extreme Northern Luzon if its path shifts further westward. The typhoon is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon, leading to heavy rains across parts of Luzon and the Visayas starting Monday. Rainfall advisories are anticipated, along with potential Signal No. 1 warnings for areas like Cagayan, Babuyan Islands, and Batanes. Strong winds and gale-force gusts are forecasted across multiple regions over the coming days, with moderate sea conditions expected along various coastal areas.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual meteorological information without any ideological framing or biased language. It focuses solely on the development of Typhoon Francisco and its impact on weather patterns, without mentioning political entities, policies, or figures.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter14 days ago Rainy Sunday due to habagat, trough of STS FranciscoA severe tropical storm named Francisco, also known internationally as Mekkhala, is currently located east of southeastern Luzon and is moving west-northwestward. The storm is expected to bring rains and thunderstorms to parts of the Philippines through its trough and the influence of the southwest monsoon, or 'habagat.' According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Francisco is packing maximum sustained winds of 100 kph with gusts up to 125 kph. While the storm has not directly affected the country yet, its trough is expected to bring rainfall to Bicol and Eastern Visayas, while the southwest monsoon will impact Palawan, most of Visayas, and Mindanao. The rest of Luzon will remain warm with possible localized rain showers and thunderstorms later in the day.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual report on weather conditions and does not present any political opinions, biases, or framing that would indicate a leaning towards either side of the political spectrum. It focuses solely on meteorological information provided by official sources.
RapplerIndependentCenter14 days ago Severe Tropical Storm Francisco nears typhoon categorySevere Tropical Storm Francisco (Mekkhala) was approaching typhoon status on June 21, 2026, with maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h and gusts reaching 135 km/h. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) indicated that Francisco could intensify into a typhoon by Sunday and reach its peak strength by Monday or Tuesday. Located 1,170 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, the storm was moving northwest at 25 km/h and could potentially move closer to extreme Northern Luzon if its path shifted westward. The storm was also strengthening the southwest monsoon, leading to heavy rains across parts of Luzon and the Visayas starting Monday. Rainfall advisories were expected, and Signal No. 1 might be raised for certain regions by Monday morning. Strong winds and gale-force gusts were anticipated across multiple areas throughout the week.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about a natural disaster, focusing on meteorological data and warnings from PAGASA. There is no indication of ideological framing, biased language, or selective sourcing. The content remains neutral and informative, focusing solely on the storm's trajectory,风
PH
![[Time Trowel] What a Tao boat from Taiwan to Batanes tells us about Filipino history](https://images.weserv.nl/?url=www.rappler.com%2Ftachyon%2F2026%2F07%2Ftaiwan-bataan-ovayan-july-3-2026-adapted-reuters-ann-wang.jpg&w=3840&q=75&output=webp&we)
