Tropical Depression Obet passes near Batanes without landfall

Tropical Depression Obet passed close to Batanes on Friday evening, October 21, without making landfall.

Obet slightly weakened over Basco's coastal waters but is expected to intensify into a tropical storm by Saturday morning when it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

PAGASA maintained Signal No. 1 for Batanes, Babuyan Islands, and parts of Cagayan due to strong winds that may cause minimal to minor threats.

From Friday early morning to Saturday morning, moderate to heavy rains are expected over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Apayao, and northern portions of Ilocos Norte and mainland Cagayan.