Ramon maintains strength as it moves closer to Luzon

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Storm Ramon maintained its strength as it moves closer to the Luzon region, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported Thursday.

The state weather bureau said as of 10 a.m., Ramon was spotted 290 kilometers east northeast of Virac, Catanduanes with maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) and gustiness of 80 kph.

It moves north northwest at 20 kph, Pagasa said.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Number 2 is still raised over Catanduanes while Signal No. 1 is raised over Northern Aurora, Eastern Coast of Isabela, Polilio Island, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar.

Light to moderate with intermittent heavy rain will be experienced Thursday over Bicol Region, Quezon, as well as the eastern portions of Isabela and Cagayan.

Aside from Ramon, Pagasa is also monitoring Tropical Storm Fengshen outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

The state weather bureau said Fengshen has no effect to the country and has low chance of entering PAR. /muf