A low pressure area east of Batanes may develop into a tropical cyclone this weekend but is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines, PAGASA said Friday.
LPA 08i was located about 720 kilometers east of Itbayat, Batanes, as of 3 a.m.
PAGASA weather specialist Obet Badrina said the weather disturbance could intensify but was not expected to directly affect the country.
If it develops into a tropical cyclone, the system is forecast to move toward Taiwan, Badrina said.
PAGASA said the LPA had a medium chance of becoming a tropical depression within the next 24 hours as of 2 a.m. Friday.
The weather disturbance will be given the local name “Pilandok” if it develops into a tropical cyclone while inside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).
PAGASA continued to monitor the LPA for possible changes in its strength and movement.
The public was advised to monitor official weather updates as the disturbance develops.