Track of tropical depression "Usman" (Image courtesy of PAGASA)
MANILA -- Moderate to heavy rains are expected in several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao Thursday as tropical depression "Usman" maintains its strength, the weather bureau said.
In its latest severe weather bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said "Usman", last spotted at 435 kilometers east of Guiuan in Eastern Samar, is moving west-northwest at 20 kms. per hour with sustained winds of 55 kph and gusts of up to 65 kph.
The weather bureau said the hoisting of tropical cyclone warning signal number 1 is possible over Albay including Burias Island, Romblon, Aklan, Capiz, northern Negros Occidental, and northern Iloilo in the next severe weather bulletin.
It added that "Usman" may intensify into a tropical storm prior to landfall over Eastern Samar on Friday, December 28.
Moderate to heavy rains, which may trigger floodings and landslides, may affect Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands starting today.
Residents of these areas, especially those living near river channels and in low-lying and mountainous areas, are advised to take precautionary measures, coordinate with local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.
Fisherfolks and those with small seacrafts are advised not to venture out over the northern and western seaboards of Northern Luzon, eastern seaboard of Southern Luzon and including areas under TCWS due to rough seas.
"Usman" may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Monday, December 31. (PNA)
