'Ramon' accelerates westward; 4 areas under storm signal 1

After causing at least seven deaths, tropical depression "Ramon" (Banyan) accelerated westward towards the West Philippine Sea before noon Thursday, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said. In its 11 a.m. advisory, PAGASA said Ramon was estimated at 195 km west-northwest of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro as of 10 a.m. Ramon packed maximum winds of 55 kph near the center and is forecast to move northwest at 15 kph. By Friday morning it is expected to be 310 km west of Iba, Zambales. By Saturday morning it is expected to be 620 km west of Iba, Zambales or at 620 km west-southwest of Laoag City. Under Storm Signal No. 1 are:

- Mindoro Provinces - Lubang Island - Northern Palawan - Batangas

However, PAGASA reminded residents in low-lying and mountainous areas under Signal No. 1 to be alert against possible flash floods and landslides. It noted "Ramon" may still bring five to 25 mm per hour (moderate to heavy) of rain within its 300-km diameter. Earlier, PAGASA forecaster Gener Quitlong said "Ramon" may exit Philippine territory Friday night. Until then, he said there may be rain on parts of Luzon and Visayas. — LBG, GMA News