'Pedring' intensifies; 3 areas in Bicol under storm signal 1

At least three areas in Bicol Region were placed under Storm Signal No. 1 as tropical storm "Pedring" (Nesat) intensified further before noon Sunday, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said. "Yung kanyang diameter ngayon ay 600 km ang diameter (Its diameter has expanded to 600 km)," PAGASA forecaster Aldczar Aurelio said in an interview on dzBB radio. PAGASA estimated 10 to 20 mm per hour of rain within Pedring's 600-km diameter. Under Storm Signal No. 1 are Catanduanes, Albay, and Camarines Sur. On the other hand, PAGASA said in its Twitter account that all its models show Pedring "will make landfall." But Aurelio said there is a possibility Pedring may exit Philippine territory by Wednesday or Thursday. As of 10 a.m., Pedring was estimated at 600 km east-northeast of Virac, Catanduanes. It packed maximum sustained winds of 95 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 120 kph. PAGASA said Pedring was moving west at 22 kph and is expected to be 420 km east of Baler, Aurora Sunday evening. By Monday evening, it is expected to be 20 km southeast of Tuguegarao City. By Tuesday evening it is expected to be 240 km northwest of Laoag City. PAGASA reminded residents in low-lying and mountainous areas under Signal 1 to be alert against possible flash floods and landslides. — LBG, GMA News