Francisco may intensify into a super typhoon within 12 hours — Pagasa

MANILA, Philippines — Typhoon Francisco (international name: Mekkhala) may further intensify into a super typhoon over the next 12 hours, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) on Monday.

Pagasa issued the warning in its latest typhoon bulletin as Francisco was last located 625 kilometers (km) east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

READ: Typhoon Francisco rapidly intensifies over Philippine Sea

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It currently carries maximum sustained winds of 175 km per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 215 kph, while moving west northwestward at 20 kph.

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“Francisco is forecast to reach super typhoon category within the next 12 hours,” Pagasa said.

Despite this, Pagasa noted that Francisco is still expected to remain far from the Philippine landmass, though a slight westward shift is not entirely ruled out.

Furthermore, the typhoon is expected to start weakening by Wednesday, June 24, due to unfavorable environmental conditions before exiting the Philippine area of responsibility.

However, Pagasa advised the public and disaster risk reduction and management offices concerned to take all necessary measures to protect life and property.

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Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 or where winds of 39 to 61 kph and intermittent rains may be expected in at least 36 hours is raised in the following areas:

Batanes

The northeastern portion of Cagayan (Gonzaga, Santa Ana) including the eastern portion of Babuyan Islands (Babuyan, Didicas, Camiguin) /das

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