The Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) lets you know if the weather is about to turn nasty. It will alert you up to 36 hours before a storm is due to make landfall. This means that you should prepare to deal with winds of 30-60 kph and possible roof damage. However, the lead time will vary depending on the path of the storm. For that reason, it is important to monitor the forecast closely so you can be sure to stay safe.
PSWS No. 1
The Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) is an early warning that a storm is coming. It indicates the intensity of wind, rainfall and expected time of landfall. The first warning is issued 36 hours before the storm is expected to hit. The National Weather Service estimates that the storm could bring wind speeds of up to 60 mph. The storm may also bring light rain and damage to low-lying structures.
When the PSWS is raised, it means that there are chances of intermittent rains and strong winds. This is particularly important for Australia. A PSWS number one will be displayed for 36 hours, while PSWS number two will be displayed for 18 hours. At this time, it is advised that people move to higher ground to avoid flooding.
The PSWS system has several types of warning signs. The first signal is the red storm warning signal. This signal warns people that the storm will be severe in the next 12 hours. Depending on the storm’s path, this signal will be upgraded to higher warning levels. A storm signal will be raised to a higher level if it passes through an area with an AOR or PAR.
In 1997, the Philippines PSWS was upgraded to four levels. Those levels were based on WMO tropical cyclone categories. The PSWS was first raised over Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. The PSWS was rolled out over other coastal areas such as Apayao and Kalinga. After that, it was raised over the rest of the Cagayan Peninsula.
PSWS No. 2
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a public storm warning signal No. 2 for the region. This signal indicates a threat of intermittent rains and 60-100 kph winds within the next 24 hours. Communities should prepare for moderate to heavy damage. Schools should suspend classes until further notice.
When a storm warning signal is posted, it means a tropical cyclone will affect the area. This cyclone will have winds of up to 60 KM/h, and rainfall may be dispersed over a 36-hour period. Wind damage may be minimal, though smaller trees or even banana plants may be uprooted. Because of the high winds, it is important to monitor storm warning signals closely.
A public storm warning signal is issued when there is a high risk of severe weather and/or flooding. The warning indicates that severe storms are likely to develop in the area, and is usually of short duration. Typically, this type of warning is issued for marine thunderstorms with high winds, large hail, and waterspouts. In rare cases, it may be used for short-lived mesoscale events.
When the fourth storm warning signal is raised, a typhoon is on its way. The storm is expected to reach an area in a 12-hour period. It may have winds over 185 kph and be very destructive. It may also uproot large trees and cause major damage to buildings and other structures. In general, outdoor activities should be suspended until the storm passes.
PSWS No. 3
Public storm warning signals are issued when a tropical cyclone threatens a specific area. Each signal is based on the intensity and size of the circulation and the forecast direction and speed. If a storm changes rapidly in strength, the PSWS number may be upgraded or downgraded.
Generally, a No. 3 signal indicates strong winds that range from 41 to 62 kilometres per hour, with gusts up to 110 kilometres per hour. These winds can be dangerous, particularly for people in exposed areas, such as hilltops. The warning signal usually lasts for 12 hours. However, stronger winds may develop earlier if exposed areas are not protected.
If the storm is a Typhoon, the PSWS #3 means the storm could produce storm surges of three to nine feet. This is much higher than normal. Coastal roads below seven feet are also at risk of being inundated. The storm could also bring heavy rainfall and cause extensive damage.
During PSWS No. 3, the threat is low, but strong winds could increase the risk of damage. The windy conditions may also bring isolated heavy rain. In addition, heavy rain may cause storm surges of.5-1 meter. In such a case, disaster preparedness agencies should be notified of the danger.
