The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) yesterday warned the public against flashfloods and landslides that might be triggered by heavy rains brought by an enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat).
In a phone interview, weather specialist 1 Ludy Alviar said the southwest monsoon is enhanced by a tropical depression and a low pressure area outside the Philippine area of responsibility.
According to its five-day forecast, Pagasa said moderate to strong rains will prevail over Metro Manila, Tagaytay City and Subic, Zambales until tomorrow. Likewise, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected today over the cities of Tuguegarao, Laoag, Baguio, Puerto Princesa, Iloilo and Bacolod.
Light to moderate rain, on the other hand, is expected over Metro Cebu, Tacloban City, Cagayan de Oro, Metro Davao and Zamboanga City until Thursday.
As of 2 a.m. yesterday, the depression was estimated at 330 kilometers west of northern Luzon with maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometer per hour near the center. It is forecast to move west at 19 kph. – Helen Flores