Signal #1 in Isabela, Aurora as 'Vinta' maintains strength

MANILA, Philippines - Tropical Depression "Vinta" has maintained its strength and continues to move toward Isabela and Aurora, the state weather bureau said Tuesday afternoon.

Vinta was last observed at 820 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes packed with maximum winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its 5 p.m. update.

Moving west at 26 kilometers per hour, Vinta is expected to be at 320 kilometers northeast of Virac, Catanduanes or at 420 kilometers east of Casiguran, Aurora by Wednesday afternoon.

Public storm warning signal no. 1 has been raised over Isabela and Aurora, where winds of 30 to 60 kilometers per hour is expected in at least 36 hours.

PAGASA said moderate to heavy rainfall is expected within the 300-kilometer diameter of the tropical depression.

The agency said Vinta is expected to be outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Friday afternoon.