Forecast track

PAGASA said the tropical depression further accelerated as it crossed the southern part of Sorsogon after its second landfall and is now moving

west-northwest at 25 kph.

Based on its current track, PAGASA said“Of el” will move west northwest ward over the inland seas of Southern Luzon and may pass close to or over Masbate, Romblon, and Mindoro provinces.

It is also likely to emerge over the West Philippine Sea on Thursday morning and is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Friday morning or afternoon, the state weather bureau added.

“Ofel” is the 15th tropical cyclone to enter the country this year and the second this month after Tropical Storm “Nika.” At least two to three tropical cyclones are likely to enter PAR this October, PAGASA added.

The country gets an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually. PAGASA had earlier said that more rains are expected in the coming months due to the onset of La Niña.