THE low-pressure area (LPA) east of Surigao del Sur has developed into a tropical depression (TD) and has been named Aghon, the weather bureau said Friday.
Aghon packs maximum sustained winds of 45 kph near the center and gusts of up to 55 kph, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
It was last tracked 340 km. east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, moving west-northwest at 30 kph.
Tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 was hoisted over Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, Siargao Islands, and Bucas Grande Islands. Minimal to minor impacts from strong winds are possible in these areas.
Aghon is forecast to move northwest or north-northwest as it slowly intensifies this weekend.
It could closely approach or make landfall in the vicinity of Eastern Samar on Saturday.
Aghon could also intensify into a severe tropical storm by mid-Sunday, PAGASA said.
Local winds may be slightly stronger in coastal and mountainous areas, it added.
Aghon is also forecast to bring moderate to rough seas over the coastal waters along the northern and eastern seaboards of Eastern Visayas, and the eastern seaboard of the Caraga Region.
PAGASA urges mariners of motor bancas and similarly-sized vessels to take precautionary measures while venturing into the sea and, if possible, avoid navigating in these conditions. (PNA)
