Severe Tropical Storm Francisco (internationally name: Mekkhala) is close to becoming a typhoon, Pagasa reported Sunday.
In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said Francisco had maximum sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour.
The storm was last located 1,170 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon and is moving northwestward at 25 kph while its gustiness may reach up to 135 kph.
Pagasa said the storm isexpected to continue gaining strength.
The weather bureau said Francisco could reach typhoon category within the day.
Pagasa also said the cyclone may further intensify and reach its peak strength by Monday or Tuesday.