Weather Update: Typhoon ‘Dodong’ Intensifies Slightly — PAGASA

(PNA) – Typhoon “Dodong” has intensified slightly while moving in a west-northwest direction toward the eastern section of central Philippines, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

In its bulletin update as of 12 noon Thursday, the state-run weather agency said the typhoon was located at 885 kilometers east-northeast of Surigao City (11.0°N, 133.5°E).

Its maximum sustained winds accelerated to 140 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center from 130 kph while its gustiness also increased to 170 kph from 160 kph. It is forecast to move west-northwest at 17 kph.

With its current speed and movement, PAGASA said typhoon “Dodong” is expected to be at 575 km east of Borongan, Eastern Samar by Friday morning.

By Saturday morning, it is estimated to be at 220 km east of Virac, Catanduanes, and in the vicinity of Isabela and Cagayan by Sunday morning.

By Monday morning, “Dodong” is expected to be in the vicinity of Basco, Batanes, and at 495 km north-northeast of Basco, Batanes by Tuesday morning.

PAGASA said that no public storm warning signal has been raised so far in any part of the country. However, the typhoon is expected to affect Eastern Visayas and the Bicol region for the next 24 to 36 hours.

The estimated rainfall amount is from heavy to intense within the 300-km diameter of the typhoon. (PNA) SCS/CLTC/Paul Fabienne S. Sevilla/PFSS (OJT)