Manila, Feb. 5 -- Basyang has intensified into a tropical storm and is forecast to gradually strengthen while over the Philippine Sea, the weather bureau said Wednesday.

In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Basyang is now located 560 km. east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

It is moving westward at 15 kph with maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph.

PAGASA hoisted Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 over Surigao del Sur.

Areas under TCWS No. 1 are Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, the northern portion of Davao Oriental (Boston, Cateel, and Baganga), the northern portion of ...