Tropical Depression Ester enters PAR; Signal No. 1 raised over Batanes

The Low Pressure Area (LPA) located northwest of Batanes has developed into Tropical Depression Ester with Signal No. 1 raised over Batanes, said PAGASA in its Tropical Cyclone Bulletin posted early Friday morning.

The center of Tropical Depression Ester was estimated at 225 kilometers west of Itbayat, Batanes packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hours near the center, gustiness of up to 55 km/h, and central pressure of 1002 hPa.

Ester is moving northeastward at the speed of 20 km/h with strong winds extend outwards up to 280 km from the center.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 is in effect over Batanes, which will experience strong winds, wind speed from 39 to 61 km/h with minimal to minor threat to life and property.

Heavy Rainfall Outlook

Heavy rainfall outlook is expected due to Tropical Depression Ester and the Southwest Monsoon.

• 100-200 mm expected over Ilocos Sur and La Union
• 50-100 mm expected over Batanes, Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, Abra, Benguet, and Zambales

Severe Winds

"The wind signals warn the public of the general wind threat over an area due to the tropical cyclone. Local winds may be slightly stronger/enhanced in coastal and upland/mountainous areas exposed to winds. Winds are less strong in areas sheltered from the prevailing wind direction," said PAGASA.

The Southwest Monsoon will bring strong to gale-force gusts over the following areas (especially in coastal and upland areas exposed to winds) over most of Luzon.

Mariners are advised to take precautionary measures while venturing out to sea and, if possible, avoid navigation under these conditions.

Track and Intensity Outlook

Tropical Depression Ester is forecast to move northeastward and will make landfall over the southwestern coast of Taiwan on Friday.

Ester will then continue moving generally northeastward and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday morning before heading towards southern Japan.

"Ester may maintain its strength as it traverses the southern portion of Taiwan. Afterwards, it will steadily intensify and may reach tropical storm category by tomorrow while over the East China Sea," said PAGASA. — BAP, GMA News