‘Hanna’ strengthens, now a tropical storm

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Depression Hanna has intensified into a tropical storm on Sunday afternoon.

In its latest severe weather bulletin, PAGASA weather specialist Raymond Ordinario said "Hanna" was located 1,060 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan as of 3 p.m. on Sunday.

PAGASA said "Hanna" packs maximum winds of 65 kilometers per hour and gustiness of up to 15 kph.

"Hanna" is heading north at 15 kph. It is expected to move northward within 24 hours then west-northwest after.

Ordinario said "Hanna" is expected to leave the Philippine area of responsibility between Thursday, August 8, or Friday, August 9.

It is expected to strengthen while over the Philippine sea but the tropical storm currently does not affect the country.

Ordinario explained that the rains being experienced are triggered by the southwest monsoon or habagat.

Monsoon rains are expected over Luzon areas such as Central Luzon, Mimaropa and Metro Manila. Meanwhile, the rest of Luzon will experience cloudy skies and scattered rainshowers. 

Earlier, PAGASA said "Hanna" is less likely to make landfall even if it develops into a tropical storm. — Rosette Adel