Signal No. 1 in 4 areas as Tropical Depression Aghon nears
MANILA, Philippines – Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal number one is up over Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islamds, Siargao Island and Bucas Grande Islands after the low-pressure area (LPA) east of Surigao del Sur intensified into Tropical Depression Aghon, the state weather bureau reported early Friday morning.
In its 4:00 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said the eye of Aghon was spotted some 340 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour (kph) and gustiness of 55 kph while moving west-northwest at 30 kph.
“Aghon is forecast to move generally northwestward or north-northwestward from today until tomorrow while slowly intensifying. On the track forecast, Aghon is forecast to make a close approach or make landfall in the vicinity of Eastern Samar tomorrow morning as a tropical depression,” Pagasa said.
“Afterwards, Aghon will pass north-northwestward over Eastern Visayas, then emerge over the waters off the east coast of Bicol Region tomorrow afternoon or evening as a tropical storm,” Pagasa said.
Friday forecast
A rainy and windy Friday is expected in Dinagat Islands and Samar provinces, with possible flashfloods and landslides, Pagasa warned.
Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are expected in the Bicol region, Northern Mindanao, Davao region, and the rest of Visayas and Caraga, while the easterlies will also bring cloudy skies and isolated rain showers to Metro Manila and the rest of the country.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals may be raised over parts of Eastern Visayas and the Caraga region before noon Friday, Pagasa said.
Rough seas alert!
Moderate to rough seas (1.5 to 3.0 m) are expected in the northern and eastern seaboards of Eastern Visayas and the eastern seaboard of the Caraga region.
“Mariners of motor bancas and similarly-sized vessels are advised to take precautionary measures while venturing out to sea and, if possible, avoid navigating in these conditions, especially if inexperienced or operating ill-equipped vessels,” Pagasa added.
