Typhoon "Luis" has maintained its strength as it threatens extreme Northern Luzon, the Philippine News Agency reported Wednesday.

At 16:00 local time (08:00 GMT), the eye of the storm was located based on satellite and surface data at 600 kilometers east of Basco, Batanes at the northernmost part of the Philippine islands, with maximum sustained winds of 150 kilometers per hour ( kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 185 kph.

"Luis" is expected to be at 330 kilometers East Northeast of Basco, Batanes by Thursday afternoon. By Friday afternoon, it will be at 200 kilometers North Northeast of Basco, Batanes and by Saturday afternoon, it will be at 250 kilometers North Northeast of Basco, Batanes.

Residents along coastal areas with public storm warning signals are advised to seek higher grounds due to big waves generated by the storm. Those residing in low-lying areas and near mountain slopes are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides.

The public and the disaster coordinating councils concerned are advised to take appropriate actions.

The Philippines is visited by about 20 typhoons each year.

(Xinhua News Agency September 14, 2006)