Signals up, flights canceled as Aghon intensifies

Several flights were canceled while sea trips were suspended by port authorities yesterday as Tropical Depression Aghon gained strength and continued to bring heavy rains and severe winds over the country’s eastern seaboard.

- ROMINA CABRERA

Aghon was forecast to intensify into a tropical storm by this morning, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

PAGASA said Aghon was seen to intensify before 8 a.m. this morning as it moved toward the Philippine landmass.

It could make landfall over the southern portion of Eastern Samar or Dinagat, after which it will pass northwestward, skirting the coast of Northern Samar.

It could possibly make another landfall over the southern portion of Bicol region this evening.

By Sunday, Aghon could begin to recurve generally northeastward as it continues to intensify. It could reach severe tropical storm category by Sunday morning and a typhoon by Monday.

Aghon was monitored 135 km northeast of Hinatuan at 3 p.m. yesterday.

Signals raised 

Tropical cyclone wind signal No. 1 has been raised over Sorsogon, Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, parts of Camarines Norte and Masbate.