By Samantha Yu
MANILA – Batanes is under Signal No. 1 after a low-pressure area northwest of the province strengthened into Tropical Depression Ester, PAGASA said Friday morning.
Ester was last located 225 km west of Itbayat, Batanes, with sustained winds of 45 kph and gusts reaching 55 kph. The system is moving northeast at 20 kph.
The weather disturbance is expected to bring strong winds and rainfall to Batanes, while the southwest monsoon continues to affect Ilocos Region, Abra, Benguet, and Zambales with scattered rains.
Gale-force gusts are also expected across much of Luzon, while rough seas remain a concern in northern coastal waters including Babuyan Islands and nearby provinces.
PAGASA warned small craft operators and motorbancas to stay ashore due to hazardous sea conditions.
Ester is forecast to head toward southwestern Taiwan and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday.
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