MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Depression “Pilandok” maintained its strength Sunday as it moved slowly northwestward over the Philippine Sea, with its circulation expected to enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat affecting parts of the country.
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| Photo courtesy: DOST-PAGASA |
In its 5 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Pilandok was located about 1,180 kilometers east of extreme northern Luzon as of 4 p.m.
The tropical depression had maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour near the center, with gusts of up to 55 kph. Strong winds extended as far as 420 kilometers from its center.
Pilandok is forecast to move west-northwestward on Monday, August 31, before turning generally northwestward for the rest of the forecast period.
While the system is inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, PAGASA said it is less likely to make landfall in the country and is expected to remain far from the Philippine landmass.
However, its presence may enhance the habagat, potentially bringing periods of rain to areas affected by the southwest monsoon. PAGASA also warned that heavy rainfall and severe winds may occur outside the projected landfall point and forecast confidence cone.
No Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal is currently in effect.
Pilandok is expected to remain a tropical depression before weakening into a remnant low over the Philippine Sea south of the southern islands of Japan on Tuesday, September 1.
Meanwhile, another low-pressure area outside the PAR has a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression. The LPA formerly known as “Saudel,” also outside the PAR, likewise has a medium chance of redevelopment.
— The Summit Express
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