Signals up in North

STORM signals have been raised in northernmost Philippines due to Typhoon “Helen” (international name: “Megi”).

In its 5 p.m. advisory, the weather bureau said storm signal no. 2 had been raised over Batanes and storm signal no. 1 over northern Cagayan, including the Babuyan islands.

In an advisory, the Office of Civil Defense said this meant “moderate danger over Batanes in 16 hours; and light to moderate damage from rains/gusty winds,” as well as “minor damage over Babuyan and the northern tip of Cagayan in 16 hours.  No damage is expected from rains or gusty winds.”

As of 5 p.m., Helen was located 415 km east northeast of Basco and maintained its strength as it continued to move toward Taiwan.

Jaymee Gamil