By Ellalyn de Vera-Ruiz
Heavy rain, flooding, and landslide warnings remain in place over parts of the country on Saturday due to the prevalence of rain-inducing weather systems, the low pressure area (LPA) and tail-end of cold front.
(PAGASA/ MANILA BULLETIN)
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the combined effects of the LPA and tail-end of cold front may continue to bring scattered moderate to at times heavy rains over Palawan, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Masbate, and Visayaswithin the next 24 hours.
The tail-end of cold front is the boundary between cold and warm air masses that causes rains.
PAGASA weather specialist Loriedin dela Cruz said the LPA is not expected to develop into a tropical cyclone but can still pose a threat to landslide- and flood-prone communities. She advised residents in affected areas to take the necessary precautions during heavy rainfall.
The LPA, which was generally moving west, was estimated 355 kilometers (km) west-northwest of Zamboanga City or 155 km east-southeast of Puerto Princesa City around 3 p.m. on Saturday.
The occurrence of a tropical cyclone in March is possible based on the PAGASA’s historical record. It shows that at least one tropical cyclone could develop near the country’s coast or make landfall during this period.
Meanwhile, the easterlies or warm and humid winds coming from the Pacific will bring partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers.
Mindanao may also have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers due to localized thunderstorms. Flash floods over low-lying areas or landslides in mountainous communities are possible during severe thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening, PAGASA warned.
The gale warning was lifted on Saturday afternoon but moderate to rough seas may still prevail across the country’s coastlines.
Fishing boats and small sea crafts, as well as larger sea vessels should remain alert against very rough sea conditions.