The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued its weather forecast for August 17, 2024. As of 3:00 AM today, a Low-Pressure Area (LPA) was located 375 km north-northeast of Itbayat, Batanes (24.0°N, 122.9°E). The Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) is currently affecting extreme northern Luzon, bringing varying weather conditions across the country.
Forecast Weather Conditions
In Batanes and the Babuyan Islands, residents can expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms. These weather conditions are caused by the Southwest Monsoon. PAGASA warns of potential flash floods or landslides in these areas, especially during severe thunderstorms.
For Metro Manila and the rest of the country, the weather will be generally fair with partly cloudy to cloudy skies. However, ever, isolated rain showers and thunderstorms may occur due to localized thunderstorms. Similar to the northern areas, flash floods and landslides are possible during intense thunderstorms.
Visayas, Palawan, and Occidental Mindoro Forecast
In the Visayas, Palawan (including the Kalayaan Islands), and Occidental Mindoro, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are expected, also due to localized thunderstorms. Despite this, light to moderate winds will prevail, with seas ranging from slight to moderate, or 0.6 to 2.1 meters in wave height.
Winds and Coastal Waters
Throughout the country, winds are expected to be light to moderate, coming from the southeast to southwest direction. Coastal waters are predicted to be generally calm, with slight to moderate waves ranging between 0.6 to 2.1 meters. While seas are relatively safe for small vessels, PAGASA advises the public to remain cautious, particularly when thunderstorms are present.
Residents, particularly in areas prone to heavy rain and thunderstorms, to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides. People living in low-lying areas and near mountain slopes are encouraged to take necessary precautions, especially during sudden weather changes.
For updates on weather conditions and advisories, the public is encouraged to monitor PAGASA’s bulletins and announcements throughout the day.