The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday, July 14, warned of increasing rains across the country this week as a Low-Pressure Area (LPA) could develop by midweek, which may enhance the effects of the southwest monsoon, locally known as “habagat.”
PAGASA weather specialist Daniel James Villamil said cloud clusters east of Visayas and Mindanao are being closely monitored as of Monday morning for possible development into an LPA by Wednesday, July 16, or Thursday, July 17.
On Tuesday, July 15, Villamil said scattered rains and thunderstorms are expected to persist in the western sections of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao due to the habagat.
If the cloud clusters develop into an LPA, it is expected to move westward toward the Philippine landmass, which could intensify the rainfall brought by the habagat.
Villamil said the combined effects of the potential LPA and the habagat will bring scattered rains and thunderstorms over Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao from Wednesday to Thursday.
By Friday, July 18, these weather systems may cause scattered rains and thunderstorms across the entire country.
If the LPA strengthens into a tropical depression, PAGASA will assign it the local name “Crising.”
Villamil advised the public, especially those in flood- and landslide-prone areas, to stay vigilant and continue monitoring PAGASA’s updates regarding this potential weather disturbance.