Severe Tropical Storm Francisco has weakened as it accelerates north northeastward and is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Thursday afternoon or evening, according to PAGASA.
In its 5:00 a.m. bulletin on Thursday, PAGASA said Francisco continues to move generally northeastward toward the Ryukyu Islands and the waters south of mainland Japan.
The weather bureau forecast the cyclone to gradually weaken further and be downgraded to a tropical storm on Friday, June 26.
Despite moving away from the country, Francisco and the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as "habagat," will continue to bring strong to gale-force wind gusts over large parts of Luzon, as well as Panay Island, Negros Occidental, and Northern Samar on Thursday.
PAGASA said minimal to minor impacts from strong winds remain possible in areas under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.
The agency also warned that heavy rainfall associated with the enhanced southwest monsoon may continue to affect parts of the country, urging the public to monitor the latest weather advisories.
Meanwhile, rough sea conditions are expected over the northern and eastern seaboards of Batanes, where wave heights may reach up to 3.5 meters.
PAGASA advised mariners of small seacraft, including motorbancas, not to venture out to sea under these conditions, particularly those operating ill-equipped vessels or lacking experience.
Moderate seas are also expected in several coastal waters in Northern Luzon, including the Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, and parts of Central Luzon.
The state weather bureau emphasized that heavy rainfall and strong winds may still be experienced outside the forecast confidence cone of the tropical cyclone and urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow updates from local authorities.
