2 or 3 cyclones likely this August -- PAGASA

Two or three tropical cyclones may enter or form inside the country's area of responsibility this month, based on the historical record of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The climatological tracks of tropical cyclones inside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) in August suggest four common tracks.

• Recurving towards the northern part of PAR or non-landfalling, moving towards Japan, but may enhance the southwest monsoon activity during its passage.

• Recurving towards the northwestern part of PAR or non-landfalling, moving towards Taiwan, but may enhance the southwest monsoon activity during its passage.

• Landfalling tropical cyclones traversing the extreme northern islands of the Philippines or moving towards Hong Kong or Vietnam.

• Landfalling tropical cyclones traversing the northern parts of Luzon island or moving towards Vietnam.

PAGASA said that generally near normal rainfall conditions except for the western part of Luzon where below normal rainfall is likely are expected in August.

As of Sunday, Aug. 1, PAGASA said the southwest monsoon or "habagat" remains the dominant weather system across the country.

Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms may prevail over Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Batanes, Cagayan, Zambales, and Bataan.

PAGASA warned against possible flash floods or landslides during moderate to at times heavy monsoon rains.

Meanwhile, Metro Manila and the rest of the country will have isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.

Possible flash floods or landslides are also likely during severe thunderstorms, PAGASA advised.