Indoor Air Quality Alert: Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi)

What is the name and location of the storm?

As of November 3, 2025, the storm is named Typhoon Tino, internationally known as Kalmaegi. It is located over the Philippine Sea, moving west-southwest toward Eastern Samar in the central Philippines (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the storm?

The following regions are under significant threat from Typhoon Tino’s impact:

• High-impact areas: Eastern Samar (Guiuan, Balangiga), Leyte (Abuyog), Masbate, Bicol Region, Aurora Coastline (2).
• Medium-impact areas: Metro Manila (low-lying districts), Cebu City, Bataan, Ilocos Norte.
• Additional affected zones: Dinagat Islands, Southern Leyte, Siargao, Bucas Grande, and Northern Mindanao (3).

Localized flooding and power outages have already been reported in Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro, and Agusan del Norte.

Wind map of Philippines on Nov 3, 2025. Source IQAir.

What is the projected path and intensity of the storm?

Typhoon Tino is forecast to intensify before landfall between the southern portions of Eastern Samar and Southern Leyte late on November 3 or early November 4.

The storm is expected to:

• Reach peak winds between 150–165 km/h near landfall, equivalent to a Category 3 hurricane.
• Traverse Leyte Island, move across Visayas, and pass near northern Palawan before exiting into the West Philippine Sea by November 5.
• Bring rainfall up to 200 mm in areas such as Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, and Negros Occidental (4).

Typhoon Tino may re-strengthen as it moves over open waters after crossing the central Philippines (5).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

As of November 3, 2025, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued multiple Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals:

• Signal No. 4: Dinagat, Siargao, Bucas Grande.
• Signal No. 3: Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, and portions of Leyte.
• Signal No. 2: Masbate, Samar, and Bohol.

Evacuations and work suspensions have been announced in Cagayan de Oro City, Surigao del Norte, and Agusan del Norte.

The Philippine Coast Guard has suspended ferry trips across Eastern Visayas and Mindanao due to gale warnings and storm surges up to 3 meters.

Residents in flood-prone and coastal areas are urged to evacuate to higher ground and stay alert for further advisories (6).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.