Tropical Storm “Opong” continues to intensify while moving west-southwestward over the Philippine Sea, the PAGASA said.

As of 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 24, the center of Tropical Storm Opong was estimated to be at 815 km East of Northeastern Mindanao. It has maximum sustained winds of 95 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 105 km/h, and a central pressure of 996 hPa.

Opong is presently moving west-southwest at 15 km/h.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) number 1 is also currently hoisted in the following parts of Visayas with strong winds:

• Northern Samar
• Eastern Samar
• Samar

However, the state weather bureau said it has a minimal to minor threat to life and property, despite the strong winds.

Despite this, PAGASA cautioned that heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surge may still be experienced in localities outside the landfall point as well as the forecast confidence cone.

Opong is forecast to begin moving west-northwestward as it approaches the Eastern Visayas – Southern Luzon area. According to its forecast track, Opong is expected to make landfall over the Bicol Region by Friday afternoon (September 26). From there, it may cross Southern Luzon until Saturday (September 27) morning.

However, the tropical storm will continue to intensify over the Philippine Sea and may reach typhoon category before it makes landfall in the Bicol Region.

PAGASA said it may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Sunday (September 28) morning.