MANILA, Philippines - Typhoon Helen (international name Megi) maintained its strength as it moved closer to the Batanes-Taiwan area yesterday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.
As of 5 p.m. yesterday, the Batanes group of islands was placed under tropical cyclone warning signal No. 2, while signal No. 1 was raised over northern Cagayan, including Babuyan islands.
PAGASA said areas under signal No. 2 can expect winds of 61 to 120 kilometers per hour within the next 24 hours. These winds can peel off roofs of nipa and cogon houses, old and dilapidated schoolhouses, makeshift shanties, as well as old galvanized iron roofs, the agency said.
As of 4 p.m. yesterday, the eye of Helen was spotted at 415 kilometers east of Basco, Batanes, packing winds of 150 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 185 kph.
It is forecast to move west-northwest at 20 kph.
PAGASA said moderate to heavy rain may be experienced in areas within the typhoon’s 800-km diameter.
Apart from areas under tropical cyclone warning signals, rains from Helen could reach the Ilocos provinces, Cagayan, Kalinga and Apayao.
Helen is unlikely to hit landmass, according to PAGASA. However, its eye is expected to pass near Batanes this morning.
It is forecast to be at 325 km north of Basco, Batanes this afternoon.
PAGASA advised the public not to go out into the northern and eastern seaboards of northern Luzon due to big waves generated by the typhoon.
The typhoon also enhanced the southwest monsoon which was bringing light to moderate rains over the western section of the country.
Helen is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility this evening.