Tropical Depression Verbena continues to maintain its strength as it approaches the CARAGA Region, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

In its 11 a.m. bulletin, PAGASA reported that Verbena was last spotted 205 kilometers east-southeast of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte. The system is moving westward at 15 km/h, with maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h near the center and gusts of up to 55 km/h.

The agency has maintained Tropical Cyclone Storm Warning Signal No. 1 in several areas of the region.

During a press briefing, PAGASA weather forecaster Grace Castañeda said that Verbena intensified on Monday as it continued its westward path toward the Visayas, prompting widespread warnings for flooding and rain-induced landslides, and placing thousands of schools at potential risk.

Several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao are under heavy rainfall warnings, with significant rain expected in many parts of the country through Thursday.

Verbena is forecast to make landfall over the CARAGA Region this afternoon or evening, November 24.

“Verbena may slightly intensify before landfall but will likely cross the Visayas as a tropical depression,” PAGASA said.

Castañeda added that Signal No. 2 may be raised in northern Palawan if Verbena strengthens into a tropical storm.

She noted that the system could reach tropical storm intensity either before reaching northern Palawan or while over the West Philippine Sea, potentially peaking as a severe tropical storm in the middle of the sea.