The state weather bureau stated Monday in its latest bulletin that Dindo (international name: Jongdari) has intensified into a storm.
As of 4 a.m. today, Tropical Storm (TS) Dindo was located approximately 640 kilometers northeast of Itbayat, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near its center and gustiness up to 80 kilometers per hour. The central pressure was recorded at 1000 hPa.
Weather specialist Obet Badrina said Dindo is currently moving northeastward at a pace of 10 kilometers per hour. Despite its intensification, the storm is projected to remain offshore, posing no direct threat to the Philippine landmass within the forecast period.
“Naging bagyo na nga yong low pressure area na ating minomonitor kahapon,” Badrina said.
No tropical cyclone wind signals have been hoisted as of now. However, the combined effects of TS Dindo and the southwest monsoon are expected to influence moderate sea conditions over the coastal waters of extreme Northern Luzon. Seas could rise to heights between 1.0 and 2.0 meters.
Mariners, particularly those operating smaller vessels like motor bancas, are urged to exercise caution. Sailing in these conditions should be avoided, especially by those who are inexperienced or possess ill-equipped vessels.
Tropical Storm Dindo is forecasted to continue its northward trajectory and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) within the next six hours.
Beyond PAR, it is expected to traverse the East China Sea, heading towards the Korean Peninsula or the eastern coast of China.
Dindo is predicted to maintain its strength as a tropical storm throughout the forecast period, with a potential weakening trend expected after 24 hours.
