3 weather systems to bring rains across Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — A combination of three weather systems is currently bringing rains to large parts of the country, with residents advised to remain alert for possible flooding and landslides, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

PAGASA said the shear line continues to affect extreme northern Luzon, bringing cloudy skies and scattered rains, particularly in Batanes and the Babuyan Islands.

Meanwhile, the easterlies are causing rainy conditions in the eastern parts of Luzon and the Visayas, increasing the risk of floods and landslides in areas such as Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon and the Bicol region.

In Mindanao, the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) remains active, resulting in high chances of rain, especially in Caraga, the Davao region and northern Mindanao. Heavy rains in these areas could trigger floods and landslides, particularly in the afternoon and evening.

According to weather forecasts, the shear line and easterlies will persist over the eastern parts of the country throughout the weekend. By next week, the northeast monsoon is expected to return, affecting northern and central Luzon.

A low-pressure area currently outside the Philippine area of responsibility poses no immediate threat, with a low chance of developing into a storm.

For Metro Manila and much of Luzon, partly cloudy to cloudy skies will prevail, with warm temperatures reaching up to 32 degrees Celsius. Brief, isolated rains are possible, especially in the afternoons and evenings.

Similar conditions will be experienced in the Visayas and Mindanao, where most areas will see partly cloudy skies with scattered rains due to the easterlies and ITCZ.

Temperatures in Cebu are forecast to range between 25 to 31 degrees Celsius, while Davao may reach up to 32 degrees Celsius.

No gale warnings are in effect, but sea conditions in northern Luzon’s coastal areas may still be moderate to rough. Fisherfolk and small vessel operators are urged to remain cautious.