Severe Tropical Storm Ofel exits Philippine area but may return near Taiwan

Severe Tropical Storm Ofel, also known as Usagi, has exited the Philippine area of responsibility, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). It was last located 205 kilometers west-northwest of Itbayat, Batanes. Ofel is moving north-northwest at 15 kilometers per hour, with maximum sustained winds of 100 kilometers per hour. Pagasa noted that Ofel may reenter the Philippine area of responsibility as it approaches Taiwan. The storm is expected to make landfall in southwest Taiwan on Saturday and could weaken to a remnant low by Sunday evening or Monday morning. A Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal remains in effect for Batanes.