Tropical depression spotted east of Mindanao

Tropical Depression (TD) Auring maintained its strength and is still not affecting any part of the country, the weather bureau said in a report by Philippine News Agency.

In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Auring still packs maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center, and gustiness of up to 70 kph.

The TD was last seen 755 km. east southeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, moving westward at 10 kph.

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An increase in Auring's speed is expected by Friday. It may also make landfall as a tropical storm over Caraga either on Saturday or Sunday.

Earlier, PAGASA forecaster Joey Figuracion said scattered rain showers will continue to prevail over most parts of the country due to the tail-end of the frontal system affecting the eastern sections of southern Luzon and the Visayas.

The northeast monsoon affecting the rest of Luzon will cause light rains over Cagayan Valley, Aurora, and Quezon, while isolated light rains will prevail over Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon.

Meanwhile, PAGASA said that in the next 24 hours, rough to very rough seas may prevail over the seaboards of northern Luzon due to the surge of the northeast Monsoon. Sea travel is risky, especially for small seacraft.

Moderate to rough seas will be experienced over the eastern seaboards of central and southern Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. 

PAGASA advised mariners of small seacraft to take precautionary measures when venturing out to the sea.