In assessing the current weather conditions, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has released its latest weather forecast on December 30, 2023, at four o’clock in the afternoon.
According to their report, the Northeast Monsoon, also known as the Northeast Habagat, is causing changes in Extreme Northern Luzon. Meanwhile, the Easterlies are bringing a different climate to other parts of the country.
In the provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes, cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are expected. This is due to the influence of the Easterlies. There is a possibility of flash floods or landslides due to unusual rainfall, especially if it becomes heavy.
In Batanes and the Babuyan Islands, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains are anticipated. This condition is caused by the Northeast Monsoon. However, it is not expected to have significant impacts in the mentioned areas.
For Metro Manila and other parts of the country, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are expected. This is influenced by the Easterlies and Localized Thunderstorms. There may be occurrences of flash floods or landslides in areas affected by heavy rainfall, especially during severe thunderstorms.
Regarding wind and coastal water conditions, moderate to strong winds are expected in Luzon and the eastern section of Visayas. The wind direction is from east to northeast. Coastal waters are expected to be moderate to rough, with heights ranging from 1.2 to 2.8 meters.
In other parts of the country, winds are expected to be light to moderate from the east to northeast. Coastal waters are expected to be slight to moderate, with heights ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters.