By Camille Villan
MANILA – State weather forecasters are keeping watch on a tropical depression east of the Philippines that is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this weekend and could develop into a typhoon by Sunday.
PAGASA said the weather disturbance, once inside PAR, will be given the local name “Francisco.”
The cyclone was last tracked around 2,085 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas at 4 a.m. Friday. It was moving west at 15 kph and carrying maximum sustained winds of 55 kph, with gusts reaching 70 kph.
Direct Impact on Philippines Unlikely
Forecast models indicate that the cyclone is not likely to make landfall in the country. However, weather officials said the possibility of hoisting Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over the eastern section of Northern Luzon remains under consideration.
The system is expected to strengthen steadily, potentially reaching tropical storm intensity on Friday before becoming a typhoon over the weekend.
Monsoon Rains Possible Next Week
While the cyclone is projected to remain away from the Philippine landmass in the short term, PAGASA said it may contribute to the strengthening of the southwest monsoon.
This could lead to increased rainfall over several areas beginning Sunday, even without a direct approach from the cyclone.
Isolated Thunderstorms Persist
Elsewhere, localized thunderstorms and easterly winds will continue to trigger isolated rain showers in different parts of the country.
The weather bureau also expects light to moderate winds and slight to moderate sea conditions to prevail nationwide.
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