The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) remains the dominant weather system affecting most parts of the country on Wednesday, Sept. 15, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Weather specialist Benison Estareja said the ITCZ, a region where winds coming from the northern and southern hemispheres converge, may bring scattered rain showers and thunderstorms over Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, Southern Leyte, and Mindanao.

PAGASA warned of possible flash floods or landslides triggered by moderate to at times heavy rains.

Meanwhile, Estareja said clear skies due to the ridge of high pressure area may prevail over Metro Manila and the rest of the country.

However, there remains a possibility of isolated rain showers due to localized thunderstorms.

PAGASA said severe thunderstorms, which are often associated with short-lived heavy rains, may also trigger flash floods or landslides.

Estareja also pointed out that a low pressure area may form east of the country in the next few days.

Three Luzon dams still conducting spilling operations

As of Wednesday, PAGASA said Ipo, Ambuklao, and Binga dams continue releasing excess water from their reservoirs.

As of 9 a.m., PAGASA said the water level at Ipo Dam in Bulacan was at 100.56 meters, which is still close to its 101.0-meter normal high water level.

"Ipo Dam management still conducting spilling operation with one gate open at 0.15 meter with a total discharge of 33.5 cms (cubic meters per second)," it pointed out.

PAGASA advised residents living along low-lying areas and near Angat river bank in Norzagaray, Angat, San Rafael, Bustos, Baliuag, Pulilan, Plaridel, Calumpit, and Hagonoy in Bulacan to remain vigilant against possible flash floods.

Meanwhile, the number of gates open at the Ambuklao and Binga dams in Benguet was further reduced on Wednesday.

As of 6 a.m., only one gate each was open at Ambuklao Dam and Binga Dam.