By Ellalyn de Vera Ruiz
The formation of two to three tropical cyclones is likely this June, which could either make landfall over central Philippines or veer away from the country, according to a weather specialist of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday.
Citing PAGASA’s historical data from 1948 to 2016, Ariel Rojas said tropical cyclones in June tend to recurve back to the Pacific Ocean or traverse the central part of the country.
So far, only one tropical cyclone made landfall over the country this year -- "Ambo" (Vongfong) in May.
Rojas said the next cyclones that will enter or form inside the country will be named Butchoy, Carina, Dindo, Enteng, and Ferdie.
According to PAGASA, rainfall this month will be generally near-normal except for some patches of below normal rainfall over Northern Luzon.
Meanwhile, generally near to above average temperature is predicted in most areas of the country.
Weather in the next few days
Rojas said the country will be cyclone-free in the first five days of June.
Warm weather-associated systems, namely the ridge of high pressure area and easterlies, will continue to usher warm and humid weather across the country.
Partly cloudy to cloudy skies in the morning with chances of isolated rains in the afternoon or evening may be felt over most of the country. Rojas said more severe thunderstorms could be experienced in Mindanao.
He advised the public to remain vigilant against possible flash floods over low-lying areas or landslides in mountainous communities during severe thunderstorms.
PAGASA has not issued a gale warning across the country's coasts, thus, fisherfolk and seafarers are safe to sail. But Rojas reminded that the occurrence of thunderstorms may cause big waves, as thunderstorms are most often accompanied by strong winds.