Tropical depression Marilyn slows down

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical depression Marilyn has slowed down while moving northwest, with its center estimated to be 1,045 kilometers east of Basco in Batanes, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

With maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph, it is almost stationary, the state weather bureau said.

“Starting Friday until this morning (Saturday), frequent light to moderate with occasional heavy rains are being experienced over Palawan, Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula and Bangsamoro,” read the Severe Weather Bulletin issued.

At the same time, PAGASA said “occasional light to moderate rains with at times heavy rain showers during thunderstorms will be experienced over Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Bicol region, Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and the rest of Mimaropa and Visayas.”

 PAGASA warned residents, especially those living in areas identified to be highly or very highly susceptible to floods and rain-induced landslides, to take precautionary measures, coordinate with local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.