Manila: Tropical Storm Paolo (international name Matmo) has slightly intensified, now packing maximum sustained winds of 85 km per hour (kph) near its center and gustiness of up to 105 kph, the weather bureau reported in its 5 p.m. bulletin on Thursday. The storm’s intensification raises concerns as it approaches the Luzon region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts that Paolo could further strengthen to reach the severe tropical storm category by Thursday night or Friday. The storm was last tracked 480 km east of Infanta, Quezon, or 480 km east of Baler, Aurora, moving west-northwestward at 15 kph.

Currently, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is in effect for Isabela, the northern portion of Quirino, the northern portion of Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, and the northern portion of Aurora. Gale-force winds are expected to prevail in these areas, posing a significant risk to residents.

Areas under Signal No. 1, including Cagayan, the rest of Quirino, Apayao, Abra, Benguet, and others, will experience strong winds. PAGASA has issued a gale warning for the eastern seaboard of Northern and Central Luzon, underscoring the storm’s potential impact.

PAGASA has also warned of a moderate to high risk of life-threatening storm surges, with peak heights reaching 1 to 3 meters within 36 hours, particularly over coastal areas in Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes.

Heavy rains are expected across various provinces, including Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Cagayan, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, and others. There is also the potential for the cyclone to make landfall over southern Isabela or northern Aurora on Friday.

PAGASA anticipates that Paolo will exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday.