Tropical Depression Ester has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), intensifying weather conditions in Batanes. This system, the fifth tropical cyclone of the year, formed early on June 5.
Current Situation in Batanes
As of 10 a.m. on June 5, Ester was situated about 230 kilometers north northwest of Itbayat, Batanes, and is moving northeast at a speed of 15 kilometers per hour.
Batanes is experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall and strong winds due to Tropical Depression Ester.
PAGASA
Under Signal No. 1 since 5 a.m. on Friday, residents are warned of strong winds and the potential for flooding and landslides.
Broader Weather Impacts
Ester is also enhancing the southwest monsoon, which is expected to bring rain to various regions, including parts of Northern and Central Luzon.
In addition to heavy rainfall, strong to gale-force winds will affect several areas, including Metro Manila and parts of Luzon.
Safety Precautions
Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the conditions may lead to rough seas, particularly along the western seaboard of Batanes and the Babuyan Islands.
Ester is forecasted to exit PAR by early June 6, potentially strengthening into a tropical storm over the East China Sea.