Tropical Depression Amang becomes the Philippines’ first tropical cyclone in 2023, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to several regions.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued warnings over Tropical Depression Amang, the country’s first tropical cyclone of 2023. The storm, with maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h and gustiness of up to 55 km/h, was last observed 475 km east of Virac, Catanduanes, moving west northwest at 20 km/h. Floods and landslides are expected as heavy to intense rains are likely to fall for the next three days in some areas. PAGASA has advised small boats against travel, and recommended larger vessels stay vigilant of big waves. Although Amang is projected to head towards Bicol on 11 April, and not make landfall, officials have not ruled this out, particularly in the north of Samar Island or the Bicol region, until 12 April. PAGASA anticipates that the storm will remain a tropical depression for the next few days before weakening into a low-pressure area by 14 April.