LPA unlikely to develop into tropical cyclone

MANILA, Philippines —  The low-pressure area (LPA) being monitored northeast of Batanes is unlikely to develop into a tropical cyclone and may dissipate within 24 hours, the state weather bureau said.

In its latest update on Wednesday, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the LPA was located about 1,655 kilometers northeast of Basco, Batanes, and remains well outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR). PAGASA said the system has a very low chance of intensifying and is expected to weaken soon.

Although no tropical cyclones are present within PAR, the southwest monsoon or habagat continues to bring rains to several parts of the country. These humid winds, common during the rainy season, are causing increased cloud formation and precipitation.

Monsoon rains are expected to persist over the western sections of Luzon, including Zambales, Bataan, Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, the Babuyan Islands and Batanes. PAGASA advised residents in these areas to stay alert for possible flash floods and landslides due to prolonged rainfall.

Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are also likely over the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Panay Island, Negros Island Region and the Zamboanga Peninsula, driven by well-developed thunderstorms. –  Jose Rodel Clapano