MANILA, Philippines — Three low-pressure areas are being monitored amid monsoon rains affecting most parts of the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said yesterday.
Formerly Tropical Depression Bising, an LPA near the boundary of the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) is not expected to redevelop into a cyclone.
An LPA east of extreme northern Luzon has a moderate potential for cyclone development.
Outside PAR, a third LPA has a high chance of developing into a tropical depression within 24 hours, but it is not projected to enter Philippine territory.
The LPAs are contributing to the enhancement of the southwest monsoon, bringing rains to western Luzon, including Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, Occidental Mindoro and Metro Manila.
Scattered rains and thunderstorms are expected in the Visayas.
Localized downpours may lead to flash floods, river swelling and landslides, especially in areas like the Zamboanga Peninsula and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Improved weather is expected in many areas of Luzon by Sunday and early next week.
Fair weather is forecast in the Bicol Region and Eastern Visayas, with brief rain showers in isolated areas.
Rainy season preparation
About 3,000 personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have been deployed in preparation for the rainy season.
The PCG is implementing its Intensive Community Assistance, Rescue and Enforcement program to strengthen partnership and cooperation with barangays and local government units, PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said.
Fishermen are advised to avoid sailing during bad weather.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has been deploying volunteers to monitor the weather situation in Metro Manila.
In Parañaque, the PRC mobilized on Wednesday its seven-man water search and rescue team to assist about 150 stranded people.
“The PRC has been monitoring weather conditions, including the daily reporting of flooded areas via the Red Cross 143 volunteers on the ground,” the PRC said.
In Virac, Catanduanes, the PRC distributed 200 mama and baby kits to pregnant and lactating women. — Evelyn Macairan, Rhodina Villanueva