By Ellalyn De Vera-Ruiz
Warm and humid weather will prevail over the weekend due to the ridge of high pressure area—a weather system that inhibits the formation of low pressure areas or cyclones.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) as of 5 p.m. Thursday, localized thunderstorms will prevail, affecting the entire country this weekend.
Rains, especially during severe thunderstorms, could trigger flash floods or landslides over low-lying and mountainous areas.
Sudden rains and thunderstorms mostly in the afternoon or evening have become more frequent as the country nears the onset of rainy season.
Rains, winds, and thunderstorms were felt in Metro Manila and other parts of the country in the past few days and these occurrences usually lasted about one to two hours.
While it is still summer or dry season, rains are expected to become more frequent as the country nears the start of rainy season in late May or early June.
Should the effect of El Niño over the country weaken; PAGASA earlier said the event will not cause a delay in the normal start of rainy season this year.
Rainy season last year officially began on June 8.