Ester maintains strength; Signal No. 1 over northern Batanes

Tropical Depression Ester maintains its strength while over the east of Taiwan on Friday evening while Signal No. 1 is raised over northern Batanes, according to the Tropical Cyclone Bulletin posted by PAGASA.

The center of Tropical Depression Ester was estimated at 300 kilometers North of Itbayat, Batanes with maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 55 km/h.

Ester is moving north northeastward at the speed of 15 km/h.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 is raised over the northern portion of Batanes (Itbayat).

Heavy Rainfall Outlook

The heavy rainfall outlook due to Ester and the Southwest Monsoon, 50 - 100 mm of rain is expected over Batanes on Friday evening that may cause localized flooding in areas that are urbanized, low lying, or near rivers. Landslide is also possible in susceptible areas.

Severe Winds

The Southwest Monsoon will bring strong to gale-force gusts over the following areas (especially in coastal and upland areas exposed to winds): Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Cagayan Valley.

Mariners are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions, especially if inexperienced of operating ill-equipped vessels.

Track and Intensity Outlook

The weather bureau said Tropical Depression Ester is forecast to move northeastward towards the East China Sea ad may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Friday evening or Saturday morning, June 6, 2026.

"Although Ester may remain as a tropical depression over the waters east of Taiwan, it may eventually reach tropical storm category within the next 24 hours," PAGASA said. — BAP, GMA News