Salome weakens into tropical depression, Signal No. 1 up in 3 areas

Salome has weakened into a tropical depression but Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 remains in three areas, according to state weather bureau PAGASA on Thursday. 

In its 8 a.m. bulletin, PAGASA raised Signal No. 1 in the following areas: 

• Batanes
• The northern and western portions of Babuyan Islands (Calayan Is., Dalupiri Is., Babuyan Is.)
• The northwestern portion of Ilocos Norte (Bangui, Pagudpud, Burgos, Pasuquin, Bacarra, Laoag City)

Salome was last located 85 kilometers southwest of Basco, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 55 km per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 75 kph.

The tropical depression was moving southwestward at 20 kph. 

“SALOME is forecast to move generally southwestward throughout the forecast period due to the High-Pressure Area over mainland China,” PAGASA said. 

“This weather disturbance may also pass close or over Babuyan Islands this morning and over Ilocos Norte by noon or afternoon,” it added.

Salome is expected to continue weakening throughout the forecast period until it becomes a remnant low by Friday, according to PAGASA. —VAL, GMA Integrated News