Typhoon "Egay' growing stronger, still on the move

Typhoon "Egay" (international codename: Sepat) intensified further as it continues to move northwest, according to the weather bureau Thursday.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the typhoon was 460 kms east southeast of Aparri, Cagayan or 410 kms north northeast of Virac, Catanduanes as of 10:00 a.m. today. 

"Egay" has maximum sustained winds of 205 kph near the center
and gustiness of up to 240 kph.  Currently, it is moving northwest at 15 kph in the general direction of Batanes-Taiwan area.  The
 
The weather bureau raised public storm warning signal  no. 1 (which has 30-60 kph winds)  over the Batanes group of islands, Cagayan, Babuyan islands, Isabela and Catanduanes. 

Likewise, typhoon "Egay" will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon which will bring rains over Luzon and the Visayas.

PAGASA said residents along coastal areas under signal number one should be alerted against big waves and storm surges generated by this typhoon.

Furthermore, they said, those living in low-lying areas and near mountain slopes are advised to take all the necessary precautions against possible flashfloods and landslides.