(CNN Philippines) Metro Manila — Tropical Storm Chedeng has maintained its strength as it continues to move over the Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said Wednesday.
In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Chedeng is forecast to gain more strength in the next three to four days. Forecast shows that it may turn into a severe tropical storm on Wednesday evening, and into a typhoon on Thursday.
“Rapid intensification is not ruled out. Peak intensity may be reached by Friday or Saturday,” PAGASA added.
The storm was last spotted 1,190 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, moving northwestward over the Philippine Sea.
Chedeng’s maximum sustained winds remained at 75 kph and gustiness of up to 90 kph.
PAGASA said Chedeng is “unlikely to directly bring heavy rain over the country” in the next three to five days. Raising of wind signals is also unlikely.
The storm is also expected to remain offshore throughout the weekend, but it may enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat. PAGASA added that the effects of the southwest monsoon may be experienced over the western portion of the country… Read More