Vinta upgraded to Tropical Storm, Signal No. 2 up in Surigao del Sur

Vinta has intensified into a Tropical Storm as it continues to move westward, PAGASA reported in its Severe Weather Bulletin issued early Thursday morning.

As of 4 a.m., the center of Tropical Storm Vinta was estimated to be 510 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur with maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph.

Vinta has slowed down and is moving at 18 kph maintaining its westward direction.

Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 2 is hoisted over Surigao del Sur.

Meanmwhile, Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1 was raised over Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Northern Davao Oriental, Northern Davao del Sur, North Cotabato, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin.

Vinta is expected to make landfall over Caraga - Davao Region area between Thursday evening and Friday morning.

The state weather bureau forecasts that scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains is expected over Eastern Visayas, Caraga and Davao Region within 24 hours.

The residents of these areas must undertake precautionary measures, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.

Meanwhile, sea travel is risky over the eastern seaboard of Visayas and Mindanao.

PAGASA reports that there is a possible inclusion of Bohol, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao in areas under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1 within 6 hours. — BAP, GMA News