Typhoon Francisco Continues to Weaken Over Philippine Sea

Typhoon Francisco has weakened to a tropical storm over the Philippine Sea, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as weather alerts remain in effect for northern Luzon. The storm, which had previously been classified as a typhoon, continues to move westward, with sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour as of 3 p.m. on Tuesday, according to the Manila Times. PAGASA issued Signal No. 1 for several provinces in northern Luzon, indicating potential heavy rains and strong winds, as reported by the Philippine News Agency.

Despite its weakening, Francisco is expected to bring significant rainfall to Luzon and the Visayas, with the Inquirer.net noting that “rainy Wednesday” conditions are anticipated in parts of the region. The storm’s movement has also coincided with the southwest monsoon, or “Habagat,” which is exacerbating flooding risks, according to ABS-CBN. “The combination of Francisco and the Habagat creates a high likelihood of prolonged heavy rains,” a PAGASA official said, though the statement was not independently verified.

Emergency preparedness measures are underway in affected areas, with local governments deploying rescue teams and setting up evacuation centers. The Philippine News Agency reported that 12 provinces in northern Luzon have been placed under Signal No. 1, the lowest level of storm warning, which signals that communities should monitor weather updates closely. Meanwhile, the Manila Times noted that Francisco’s center was located approximately 850 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City as of Tuesday evening, with the storm projected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Thursday.

Weather forecasts indicate that Francisco’s remnants will continue to affect the region through Wednesday, with the Inquirer.net citing “moderate to heavy rains” in Cagayan Valley, Ilocos, and Cordillera Administrative Region. The storm’s trajectory has also drawn attention to the vulnerability of coastal communities, particularly in Batanes and Babuyan Islands, where PAGASA has issued marine weather advisories. “Fishermen are urged to avoid navigating waters within 300 kilometers of the storm’s center,” the Philippine News Agency reported.

PAGASA has not ruled out the possibility of Francisco regaining typhoon status if it encounters favorable atmospheric conditions, though current models suggest the system will dissipate by early next week. The agency emphasized that residents should stay informed through official channels, as updates on the storm’s path and intensity are expected to be released daily. “Our priority is to ensure public safety through timely and accurate information,” a PAGASA spokesperson said, without specifying further details.