No cyclones in next 2 weeks, but rains to persist

MANILA, Philippines — No tropical cyclone is expected in the next two weeks, but rains will persist in some areas in the country, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) yesterday.

The state weather bureau said that for the first week or Dec. 27 to Jan. 2, there is a possible tropical cyclone-like vortex in the southwestern part of the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

“This tropical cyclone-like vortex has a low chance to develop into a typhoon,” PAGASA said.

The state weather bureau added that for the second week or between Jan. 3 and 9, another tropical cyclone-like vortex may develop in the southwestern part of PAR.

“There is also a low chance that it will develop into a typhoon,” it added.

However, PAGASA said heavy to intense rains are expected today in Cagayan while moderate to heavy rains are forecast in Isabela, Apayao, Palawan, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and Sarangani.

Tomorrow until Monday, moderate to heavy rains are also expected in Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Camarines Norte and Palawan.

“Forecast rainfall may be higher in mountainous and elevated areas. Moreover, impacts in some areas may be worsened by significant antecedent rainfall,” it said.