PAGASA: No tropical cyclones expected until end of February
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday, Feb. 23 said there is a slim chance that tropical cyclones will form in the coming days, which means the country may remain tropical cyclone-free until the end of the month.
PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja said in a live weather forecast that the easterlies, or warm winds from the Pacific Ocean, will be the dominant weather system in the country.
In the next 24 hours, the easterlies may bring cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms to Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and Davao Region.
Moderate to heavy rains may cause flash floods, or landslides in these areas, PAGASA warned.
Meanwhile, hot and humid weather with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms may prevail over the rest of the country.
Estareja said the northeast monsoon, also known as “amihan,” may return by weekend and bring slightly cooler weather to some parts of Luzon.
From Feb. 24 to 27, the actual air temperatures in some key areas may range from 23 to 32 degrees Celsius (℃) in Metro Manila, 22 to 33℃ in Tuguegarao City, 14 to 25℃ in Baguio City, 21 to 30℃ in Tagaytay City, 25 to 33℃ in Puerto Princesa City, 25 to 31℃ in Metro Cebu, 24 to 33℃ in Metro Davao, and 24 to 35℃ in Zamboanga City.
PAGASA said the amihan season usually ends between the second and third week of March.