Tropical depression ‘Paolo’ accelerates

MANILA, Philippines – Tropical depression “Paolo” slightly accelerated as it maintained its strength midday Friday.

“Paolo” was forecast to move west northwest at 7 kilometers per hour, packing maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said.

The cyclone was moving 290 kilometers west of Iba, Zambales.

“Paolo” was forecast to exit by Sunday morning, Pagasa said, adding that it will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon.

Moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms were forecast over Mindoro provinces and northern Palawan.