Ompong leaves PHL Area of Responsibility

Typhoon Ompong has left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Saturday evening, according to weather bureau PAGASA.

PAGASA weather specialist Ariel Rojas said Ompong exited the PAR at 9 p.m.

Ompong was last spotted 355 kilometers west of Calayan, Cagayan.

Despite exiting the country, Some Tropical Cyclone Warning System (TCWS) signals remains hoisted in several areas. Signal No. 3 is still raised in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union.

As of 9 p.m., the heavy rainfall advisory has also been lifted.

Rojas said Ompong was unlikely to strengthen again or go back to the PAR. It is expected next to make landfall in southern China.

Despite Ompong's exit, PAGASA said floods are still possible in low-lying areas even as a gale warning remains in place.

Rains can still be expected due to the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat. 

Landslides, floods, power outages

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Ompong has so far resulted in two confirmed casualties, who were rescuers conducting operations in areas affected by the typhoon in Cordillera. Theire identities have not yet been disclosed.

The NDRRMC, meanwhile, has yet to confirm four other reported deaths in Baguio City and Itogon, Benguet, which were reported by the Philippine National Police and two mayors.

Baggao, Cagayan, where the massive storm made landfall, incurred the much damage but no casualties have been reported so far.

Severe flooding had been reported in provinces off and on Ompong's trail  due to the heavy rains. PAGASA also issued a flood warning for areas near river basins.

Ompong also triggered power outages and landslides, as well as stranded passengers and uprooted trees.

Government authorities also launched rescue operations in affected areas. — MDM, GMA News