Northern Ilocos Norte and northern Cagayan under Signal Number 1

The expected route of the tropical depression (PAGASA)

Typhoon Signal Number 1 was raised over several areas in northern Luzon after Tropical Depression “Henry” intensified slightly and is expected to traverse the Babuyan Islands tonight (July 16), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

PAGASA said the areas under Signal Number 1 were Batanes, northern portion of Cagayan including the Babuyan islands, northern portion of Apayao, and the northern portion of Ilocos Norte.

“Henry is expected to traverse the Babuyan Islands tonight. Occasional rains with gusty winds are expected over the areas under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal 1,” PAGASA said in a weather bulletin issued at 5 p.m. today.

As of 4 p.m. today, the center of Tropicla Depression “Henry” was estimated at 180 kilometers east southeast of Calayan, Cagayan.

Packing maximum winds of up to 60 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 75 km/h, Tropical Depression Henry is expected to move west at 35 km/h.

“Fisherfolk and those with small seacraft are advised not to venture out (in) areas under Signal Number 1 and the western seaboard of Luzon due to moderate to rough seas associated with the approaching tropical depression and the southwest monsoon,” it added.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Observatory said it will consider issuing the Standby Signal No. 1 tonight to tomorrow morning because of the approaching tropical depression.

“According to the present forecast track, local winds will strengthen gradually later tomorrow and there will be swells. Members of the public should be on the alert,” the Observatory said.