Business · Philippines Bureau
Severe Tropical Storm Queenie intensifies, nears typhoon strength
The Philippine weather bureau reported Saturday that Severe Tropical Storm Queenie has strengthened significantly and is approaching typhoon category. The system was located roughly 575 kilometers northeast of Itbayat in Batanes province.
LSN Philippines ·
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued an updated typhoon bulletin Saturday morning noting the rapid intensification of Queenie since the early hours of the day. The tropical system showed considerable strength gains as it tracked across the Philippine waters.
At the time of the latest advisory, Queenie was positioned approximately 575 kilometers east northeast of Itbayat in Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines. The storm's proximity to typhoon strength prompted Pagasa to closely monitor its development for potential upgrades to its weather classification.
The approaching system is expected to continue threatening the northern portions of the country as it moves through the region. Residents and local government units in Batanes and nearby provinces have been advised to monitor official weather updates as the situation develops.