The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a heavy rainfall outlook and flood advisories for areas in northern and central Luzon as Tropical Cyclones NIKA and OFEL bring potentially intense rain over the next few days. This comes with a warning that rainfall levels may be intensified by previous rains, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides in certain regions.
Today, PAGASA forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall (50-100 mm) for Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, and Batanes, which are expected to experience sustained rain throughout the day. These conditions may increase the risk of flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas with previous rainfall saturation.
For Thursday, November 14, the rainfall is expected to intensify. PAGASA projects heavy to intense rainfall (100-200 mm) in Cagayan and Isabela. Additionally, moderate to heavy rainfall (50-100 mm) is expected in Apayao and Kalinga. The increased rainfall levels in these areas will likely exacerbate risks of flooding and landslides, especially in elevated and mountainous regions.
Due to these weather conditions, PAGASA has also issued general flood advisories at 6:00 AM on November 12 for various regions:
- Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) – Flood Advisory #4
- Ilocos Region (Region 1) – Flood Advisory #4
- Cagayan Valley (Region 2) – Flood Advisory #5
- Central Luzon (Region 3) – Flood Advisory #5
- CALABARZON (Region 4A) – Final Flood Advisory #5
- MIMAROPA (Region 4B) – Final Flood Advisory #3
These advisories indicate that residents should prepare for potential flood scenarios in low-lying areas and be vigilant for landslides, particularly in vulnerable mountainous regions. The issuance of flood advisories means that local authorities in the affected areas may conduct preparatory activities, including evacuation procedures in high-risk zones and coordination of relief efforts for potentially impacted communities.
PAGASA continues to monitor the weather systems and advises the public to stay tuned to updates, particularly for those in flood-prone or landslide-prone areas. Local authorities are urging residents in affected regions to exercise caution, secure property, and evacuate if needed to ensure safety.