Manila: Tropical cyclone Francisco has weakened into a typhoon category, the weather bureau confirmed in its 11 a.m. bulletin on Tuesday. The typhoon currently features maximum sustained winds of 175 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, with gustiness reaching up to 215 kph.

According to Philippines News Agency, Francisco was last observed approximately 375 kilometers east northeast of Aparri, Cagayan, or about 380 kilometers east of Calayan, Cagayan, traveling northwestward at a speed of 10 kph. Wind Signal No. 1 remains in effect for Batanes, the northeastern section of Cagayan (including Gonzaga and Santa Ana), as well as the eastern portion of the Babuyan Islands (Babuyan Island, Didicas Island, and Camiguin Island), indicating the prevalence of strong winds in these regions.

PAGASA noted that if there is a notable westward shift in Francisco's forecast track, Signal No. 2 may be issued for certain areas of the Babuyan Islands and Batanes. However, such a scenario appears unlikely as Francisco continues its northwestward trajectory. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon and the outer bands of Francisco are producing strong to gale-force gusts over the Visayas, most of Luzon, the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Davao Occidental, and Davao Oriental.

PAGASA further advised that very rough, high, or extremely high seas are anticipated along the eastern seaboards of Batanes and the Babuyan Islands, as well as the northeastern seaboard of mainland Cagayan. Sea travel is deemed risky for vessels of all sizes and tonnage. Mariners are urged to stay in port or, if already at sea, to seek immediate shelter or a safe harbor until the winds and waves diminish.

The forecast for Francisco indicates that it will maintain its current strength in the immediate future, with a gradual weakening expected over the forecast period. Additionally, PAGASA predicts that Francisco will continue to remain distant from the landmass.