The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued its weather forecast for August 29, 2024, detailing the impacts of the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as “Habagat,” which is currently affecting Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and the Visayas regions. The monsoon is expected to bring varying weather conditions across the country, with potential hazards including flash floods and landslides.
Weather Conditions and Impacts
Zambales, Bataan, Occidental Mindoro, and Palawan
These areas are forecasted to experience occasional rains throughout the day due to the continued influence of the Southwest Monsoon. Residents are advised to be vigilant, as moderate to heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous regions.
Metro Manila, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, CALABARZON, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, and the rest of MIMAROPA
These regions can expect cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. The Southwest Monsoon is the primary cause of these weather conditions, which may bring moderate to at times heavy rains. Flash floods and landslides remain a significant risk in these areas, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
Bicol Region and the rest of Central Luzon and Visayas
Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are forecast for these areas. While the Southwest Monsoon continues to influence the weather, the rainfall is expected to be less frequent and severe compared to other regions. However, the possibility of flash floods and landslides during severe thunderstorms cannot be ruled out.
The Rest of the Country
Other parts of the Philippines will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms. These conditions are attributed to localized thunderstorms rather than the monsoon. Despite the relatively calmer weather, residents should still be cautious of potential flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms.
Wind and Coastal Water Conditions
Luzon and Visayas
Winds in Luzon and Visayas will be light to moderate, coming from the southwest. Coastal waters in these areas will range from slight to moderate, with wave heights between 0.6 to 2.5 meters. Mariners and those involved in coastal activities are advised to monitor conditions closely, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
Mindanao
In Mindanao, winds will be light to moderate, coming from the south to southwest, with coastal waters also slight to moderate, with wave heights between 0.6 to 2.1 meters.
Heavy Rainfall and Flood Advisories
Palawan including Kalayaan Islands, and Occidental Mindoro
Pagasa has issued an Orange Warning Level for these areas, indicating that flooding is a significant threat in low-lying regions, and landslides are a concern in mountainous areas. The warning is based on current radar trends and meteorological data, urging the public and local disaster risk reduction and management councils to take appropriate action.
Rainfall Advisory for Palawan
Light to moderate, with at times heavy rainfall, is expected over various parts of Palawan, including El Nido, Cagayancillo, Magsaysay, Agutaya, and other nearby areas within the next one to two hours. These conditions may persist and affect additional locations within the next two to three hours.
General Flood Advisories
General Flood Advisories have been issued for several regions, including CAR, Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, and Western Visayas. These advisories highlight the risk of flooding in affected areas, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Public Advisory
Pagasa advises the public to stay updated on the latest weather bulletins and to take precautionary measures, especially those in areas prone to flooding and landslides. Local authorities are urged to monitor the situation closely and implement necessary actions to ensure public safety. And because of this, some areas have declared class suspensions.