Domeng strengthens into storm

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Storm Domeng will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon and bring rains over parts of Luzon today.

Moderate to heavy monsoon rains are expected over the Kalayaan Islands as the storm makes its way northward of extreme Northern Luzon.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that Domeng was monitored 975 kms. east of extreme Northern Luzon as of 4 p.m. yesterday and was packing maximum sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kph.

Light to moderate with at times heavy rains will be experienced over Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Occidental Mindoro and the rest of Palawan.

Meanwhile, scattered rainstorms can be expected over Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon due to the southwest monsoon.

Localized thunderstorms will affect the Visayas and Mindanao.

PAGASA warned of possible flash floods or landslides during at times heavy rains.

No tropical cyclone signal is hoisted due to Domeng as it remains far from the Philippine landmass.

Domeng is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility by this morning or afternoon and may pass close to or make landfall in the vicinity of Ryuku islands.

It may reach a peak intensity of 95 kph by today.