Severe Tropical Storm Francisco (international name: Mekkhala) has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at 10 p.m. on Saturday, the state weather bureau said.
In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the storm was estimated at 1,295 kilometers east of Southeastern Luzon, with maximum sustained winds of 95 kph and gusts reaching 115 kph.
PAGASA said Francisco is expected to continue intensifying and may reach typhoon category by Sunday, June 21, although it is unlikely to directly affect the country’s weather conditions within the next 24 hours.
The weather bureau warned that the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) enhanced by the storm may bring strong to gale-force gusts in several areas in the coming days.
On Sunday (June 21), affected areas include Siquijor, Camiguin, and the southern portions of Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental, and Sarangani. By Monday (June 22), gusty conditions are expected over Romblon, most of the Visayas, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Camiguin, Surigao del Norte, and Dinagat Islands.
PAGASA also said the possible hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 remains over the northern and eastern portions of Northern Luzon depending on the storm’s movement and intensification.
In its sea condition advisory, PAGASA said coastal waters along the eastern seaboards of Dinagat Islands, Siargao-Bucas Grande Islands, Surigao del Sur, and Davao Oriental may reach up to two meters.
Mariners of small vessels were advised to exercise caution or avoid sailing due to potentially rough sea conditions.
PAGASA urged the public and disaster risk reduction offices to take necessary precautions to protect lives and property as weather conditions evolve.
 has entered PAR, may intensify into a typhoon, and could enhance the southwest monsoon affecting parts of the Philippines){kind=link}