LPA develops into tropical depression called 'Igme' -- Pagasa

MANILA, Philippines — The low pressure area (LPA) off Batanes developed into a tropical depression now called «Igme,» the state-run weather agency said on Friday.

Estimated at 530 kilometers east-northeast of Itbayat, Batanes, Igme was moving northwestward at 15 kilometers per hour (kph).

The tropical depression has maximum sustained winds of 55kph near the center and gustiness of up to 70kph, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said.

Igme is bringing rains with gusty winds over Batanes, Pagasa's 5 p.m. advisory said.

Other areas in the country are affected by the southwest monsoon locally known as «habagat,' it added.