By Ma. Cristina Arayata/PNA
MANILA — Tropical Depression Samuel has slightly accelerated while moving northwest at 25 kilometers per hour over the Philippine Sea and might make a landfall over the eastern Visayas-Caraga area on Tuesday, the weather bureau said.
“Samuel” was last eyed at 505 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It has maximum winds of up to 55 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 65 kph, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) No. 1 was raised over Masbate, Samar, eastern Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin.
PAGASA said fisherfolk and those with small sea craft should not venture out to the areas under storm signal and the eastern and southern seaboards of Mindanao.
Signal No. 1 might also be raised over northern Samar, Capiz, Iloilo, and Guimaras late Monday evening.
Meanwhile, moderate to heavy rains, which may trigger flooding and landslides, are expected over Caraga, eastern and central Visayas, Negros Occidental, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin.
“Residents of these areas, especially those living near or in river channels, low-lying and mountainous areas, are advised to take precautionary measures,” PAGASA said.
