As of the latest update at 4:00 AM, December 31, 2023, the weather forecast paints a diverse picture across the Philippines due to the influence of the Northeast Monsoon in Extreme Northern Luzon and the Easterlies affecting the rest of the country.
Northeast Monsoon Impacting Extreme Northern Luzon: In areas such as Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes, residents can expect cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. These conditions are attributed to the Easterlies, and there is a concern for possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to heavy rains. As a precautionary measure, residents in these areas are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions.
Northeast Monsoon Over Batanes and Babuyan Islands: Moving northward, the Batanes and Babuyan Islands will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The Northeast Monsoon is the primary cause of these conditions, though no significant impacts are expected. Residents in these areas can anticipate a relatively calm weather pattern with only isolated light rains.
Easterlies and Localized Thunderstorms for Metro Manila and Beyond: The forecast indicates partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms for Metro Manila and Beyond. The influence of both Easterlies and localized thunderstorms contributes to these weather conditions. Similar to the Extreme Northern Luzon areas, flash floods or landslides can occur during severe thunderstorms. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines.
Wind and Coastal Water Conditions: In terms of wind and coastal water conditions, Luzon and the eastern section of Visayas will experience moderate to strong winds coming from the East to the Northeast. Coastal waters in these areas are expected to be moderate to rough, with wave heights ranging from 1.2 to 2.8 meters. On the other hand, the rest of the country can expect light to moderate winds from the East to Northeast, with slight to moderate coastal waters and wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters.
As we bid farewell to 2023, staying informed about the weather conditions is crucial for everyone’s safety. Regularly monitoring updates from reliable sources and heeding official advisories will help communities navigate any challenges posed by the diverse weather patterns across the nation.