After 'Ambo,' PAGASA lines up 24 more names for 2012 cyclones

After cyclone "Ambo," state weather forecasters have lined up at least 24 more names for some 18 to 19 more cyclones expected to enter Philippine territory this year. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's names for this year are basically the same as those used in 2008. Earlier this week, PAGASA said it expects at least 18 to 19 more cyclones to enter the Philippine area of responsibility this year. It also said it expects the peak season for cyclones from July to September. "July, August, September po kadalasan nagko-cross o nagla-landfall po," it added. The Philippines had its first cyclone last weekend when an active low-pressure area in Philippine territory intensified into Tropical Cyclone Ambo (Mawar). While it did not make landfall, Ambo brought rain and enhanced the southwest monsoon. It left at least three people dead. The other cyclone names for this year include:

However, "Frank" may be replaced, after PAGASA retired it due to the tragedy it caused in terms of loss of lives and property in 2008. In 2008, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, then known as the National Disaster Coordinating Council, said Frank (Fengshen) left 557 dead, 826 injured and 87 missing, and P13.525 billion in damage to agriculture and infrastructure. — LBG, GMA News