'Ada' holds strength east Luzon, wind signals raised

Tropical Storm Ada maintained its strength late Saturday as it moved slowly over waters east of Southern Luzon, triggering wind signals, storm surge threats and dangerous sea conditions across parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

State weather forecasters said Ada was centered about 120 kilometers north-northeast of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kph and gusts of up to 105 kph, moving northeastward at a slow pace.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 was raised over Catanduanes and eastern Camarines Sur, while Signal No. 1 covered large areas of eastern Luzon, the Bicol region, Marinduque, Romblon, Masbate and Northern Samar.

Minor to moderate damage from gale-force winds is possible in areas under Signal No. 2, while minimal to minor impacts are expected in Signal No. 1 areas. Forecasters said further intensification into a severe tropical storm remains possible.

Heavy rain, strong winds enhanced by the northeast monsoon, and storm surges of up to 2 meters may affect low-lying coastal communities in Bicol and Eastern Visayas within 48 hours.

Sea conditions remain hazardous, with very rough seas reaching up to 5.5 meters along the northern seaboards of Camarines Sur and Catanduanes. Authorities advised all vessels, especially small seacraft, to remain in port.

Ada is forecast to move northeast through Saturday before looping over waters east of Luzon and may weaken into a tropical depression by Tuesday as monsoon winds strengthen.