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Nona delisted, PAGASA Open to Suggestions

15 tropical cyclones entered Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in 2015, lower than the average of 18 to 20 cyclones in a year. The major factor that decreased the number of cyclones is the current strong El Niño phenomenon.

However, stronger cyclones were felt due to El Niño—some of these having cause massive destruction. When this happens, PAGASA decommissions cyclone names that have had severe impacts on lives and properties.

In line with this, PAGASA confirmed that “Nona” will be no longer used as cyclone name. Nona, with international name Melor, entered PAR last December 12, 2015.

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At least one of two factors needs to be considered before delisting or decommissioning a cyclone name.

A. Cost of Damages
– 1 billion pesos or more, including damage in infrastructure and agriculture

B. Casualty
– 300 casualties or more

Based on the recent report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), data shows that Nona wreaked damages of more than 1 billion pesos. An estimated coast of damage to infrastructure and agriculture amounting to P6, 455, 183, 879.80 were reported in Regions II, III, IV-A, IV-B, and VIII.

PAGASA also announced that the agency is open to suggestions on Nona’s name replacement. The public is urged to send suggested names through the weather bureau’s poll on Facebook. Current suggestions include Nimfa, Nardo and Nanding. To cast your vote, follow this link: NONA Replacement Poll.