The southwest monsoon, or “habagat,” will continue to bring rains over parts of the country, while a tropical storm outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) is not likely to have a direct impact, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday, June 23.

As of 8 a.m., the tropical storm, with an international name “Sepat,” was located 2,380 kilometers east-northeast of extreme Northern Luzon. 

It is moving northwestward at 15 kilometers per hour and is not expected to enter PAR or affect any part of the country in the coming days, said PAGASA weather specialist Daniel James Villamil.

Meanwhile, the habagat continues to affect western Luzon and the southern portion of Mindanao, bringing cloudy skies and increased chances of rain.

No gale warnings are currently raised in any of the country’s coastal waters, as sea conditions are generally light to moderate. 

However, Villamil warned that thunderstorm activity due to the habagat may cause sudden gusts of wind and slight increases in wave height, particularly along the western seaboard.

“The public is advised to exercise caution, especially those planning sea travel, as thunderstorms may bring sudden strong winds and rougher seas,” Villamil said.

From Tuesday to Wednesday, June 24 to 25, scattered rains and thunderstorms will continue to bring wet conditions over the western sections of Luzon and Visayas. 

Monsoon rains over Mindanao are expected to ease slightly during this period, Villamil said.

By Thursday and Friday, June 26 to 27, improving weather is forecast over Western Visayas. 

However, Villamil said rains will continue to affect the western parts of Luzon, including Ilocos Region, Zambales, Bataan, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and the western portion of Mimaropa.

Fair weather will prevail over the rest of the country during the forecast period, with only isolated rain showers or thunderstorms likely in the afternoon or evening.