'Dodong' intensifies into tropical storm as it exits PAR; PAGASA lifts all wind signals
Tropical Depression Dodong has intensified into a tropical storm as it moves away from the country, the state weather bureau said on Saturday, July 15.
Photo credit to PAGASA
In its latest bulletin issued at 11 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said "Dodong" has maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. "Dodong" intensified into a tropical storm before it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) within the day. PAGASA spotted "Dodong" moving north northwestwards at 10 kph in 305 km West of Sinait, Ilocos Sur.
Photo credit to PAGASA
In its latest bulletin issued at 11 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said "Dodong" has maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. "Dodong" intensified into a tropical storm before it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) within the day. PAGASA spotted "Dodong" moving north northwestwards at 10 kph in 305 km West of Sinait, Ilocos Sur.
Wind signals lifted
As stated in its 5 a.m. update, PAGASA reiterated that all tropical cyclone wind signals (TCWS) have been lifted. PAGASA noted that Tropical Storm Dodong does not "directly bring heavy rainfall to any part of the country." However, the enhanced Southwest Monsoon may "still bring gusty conditions" in some areas --- particularly in coastal and upland or mountainous areas exposed to winds.Gale warning signal remains
While all wind signals have been lifted, PAGASAÂ said gale warning signal No. 1 (Intermediate) remained hoisted in the northern and western seaboard of Luzon and Western Visayas due to "Dodong" and enhanced Southwest monsoon or, in local terms, "habagat." PAGASA advised mariners to take safety precautions. *(Sonny Daanoy)*