Less chance for LPA to become typhoon

CEBU, Philippines - There is less chance for the approaching low pressure area to develop into a tropical cyclone, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said yesterday.

 “There is more than 50 percent chance for the low pressure area (LPA) not to form into a tropical cyclone,” said PAGASA Mactan chief Alfredo Quiblat Jr.

 He, however, clarified that when the LPA enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), there could be possible changes in weather pattern and strength.

 “Sa pagkakaron, there’s a lesser possibility nga mahimo siyang bagyo pero daghan pang posibleng mahitabo that is why we are constantly updating,” he said yesterday, adding, more accurate forecasts will be provided once the LPA enters PAR.

 “Gamay ang kahigayonan kay hinay man siya,” he added.

 As of yesterday, the LPA was spotted 1,000 kilometers away from PAR while 2,500 kilometers away from the mainland.

 Quiblat said once the low pressure area would develop into a tropical cyclone, it would be named Betty.

 The first typhoon to enter the Philippines this year was named “Amang,” which hit the eastern part of Luzon and Visayas and brought flashfloods and landslides.

Meanwhile, PAGASA also expects another LPA to form east of Mindanao.

 Starting today until Wednesday, PAGASA projected generally fair weather – apart from isolated rain showers – throughout the country.

 From February 19 to 20, PAGASA predicted that the approach of the possible LPA would bring light to moderate rains and thunderstorms over Mindanao.  —JMO (FREEMAN)