‘Usman’ slightly intensifies as it heads towards Eastern Samar

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical depression “Usman” has slightly intensified midday Wednesday as it continues its west northwest track.

Storm signals may be raised over provinces of Eastern Visayas and northern Caraga on Wednesday night or Thursday morning, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said.

Possible disruption in maritime travel should be expected in these areas, it added.

Moderate to heavy rains, which may trigger floodings and landslides, is expected over Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands are expected starting Thursday, ahead of the expected landfall over Eastern Samar on Friday.  

Usman was last spotted 775 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It packed maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 65 kph.

It was moving west northwest at 15 kph. /je