TD Paolo forms east of Catanduanes, Signal No. 1 raised over northern Catanduanes

Tropical Depression "Paolo", the 16th cyclone to enter the Philippine area of responsibility this year, has formed east of Catanduanes.

As of Thursday afternoon, Paolo was located 665 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with sustained winds of 55 kph and gusts up to 70 kph.

Tropical cyclone wind Signal No. 1 has been hoisted over the northern portion of Catanduanes.

Paolo is forecast to intensify into a severe tropical storm before making landfall over Isabela or northern Aurora on Friday.

The cyclone is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Saturday.

From Friday to Saturday, heavy rains are likely to persist over Ilocos Sur and La Union, with moderate to heavy rains extending to other northern Luzon provinces.

Local chief executives are advised to coordinate with disaster management councils for preemptive measures.