Julian strengthens into tropical storm

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical cyclone Julian could intensify into a super typhoon as it moves closer to Batanes by tomorrow.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Signal No. 1 has been raised over parts of Luzon where Julian has intensified into a tropical storm.

Julian, which may reach super typhoon category, was monitored 390 kilometers of Aparri in Cagayan as of 3 p.m. yesterday.

It was carrying maximum sustained winds of 75 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kph.

Tropical cyclone wind Signal No. 1 was raised over Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the northern and eastern portions of Isabela, Apayao and Ilocos Norte.

Julian could make landfall or reach Batanes or Babuyan Islands on Monday.

Julian is bringing rains with gusty winds to Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Apayao and Ilocos Norte.

Scattered rains due to Julian are also forecast over Central Luzon, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes and the rest of the Ilocos region, Cordillera Administrative Region and Cagayan Valley.

Metro Manila and the rest of the country may see isolated rains due to localized thunderstorms.