Nando may trigger Signal 5 as it intensifies

Tropical Storm Nando is expected to intensify into a typhoon this weekend and may reach super typhoon strength by early next week, raising the possibility of the highest tropical cyclone wind warning - Signal No. 5 - being hoisted over parts of Northern Luzon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

- By CHRISTINE BOTON

As of 4 p.m. yesterday, the storm's center was estimated at 905 kilometers east of Central Luzon, carrying maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 105 kph. It was moving west-northwestward at 10 kph.

No storm signals have been raised so far, but Signal No. 1 may be hoisted over Northern Luzon today.

On its forecast track, Nando may approach or make landfall over the Babuyan Islands between Monday afternoon and early Tuesday morning before exiting the Philippine area of responsibility later that day.

The storm is also expected to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rains starting Sunday over CALABARZON, the Bicol Region, the Visayas, Northern Mindanao and Caraga.