MANILA, Philippines — Typhoon Saudel entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Monday afternoon and is now called "Obet."
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said “Obet” was moving west northwestward at 30 kilometers per hour (km/h) with maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h near the center and gustiness reading 215 km/h.
"Strong to typhoon-force winds extend outwards up to 540 km from the center," it said.
"This tropical cyclone is currently at near-super typhoon category, and further intensification into a super typhoon while within PAR is not ruled out. After reaching its peak intensity, a weakening trend is expected," it said.
Pagasa said that “Obet” will remain over the Philippine Sea and will exit PAR tonight or tomorrow.
