The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has released its weather forecast for March 17, 2025, highlighting the prevailing influence of the Northeast Monsoon over Northern Luzon and the Easterlies affecting the rest of the country.
Weather Conditions Across Regions:
- Caraga, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi: These areas are expected to experience cloudy skies accompanied by scattered rains and thunderstorms due to the Easterlies. Residents are advised to be alert for possible flash floods or landslides resulting from moderate to heavy rainfall.
- Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, and Aurora: The Northeast Monsoon is anticipated to bring cloudy skies with consistent rains to these provinces. Similar to the aforementioned regions, there is a risk of flash floods or landslides due to sustained moderate to heavy precipitation.
- Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, and the rest of Cagayan Valley: These areas can expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains, also attributed to the Northeast Monsoon. No significant impacts are forecasted for these regions.
- Metro Manila and the Rest of the Country: The influence of the Easterlies will result in partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms. Residents should remain cautious of possible flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms.
Wind and Coastal Water Conditions:
- Northern Luzon: Strong to gale-force winds from the northeast are expected, leading to rough coastal waters with wave heights ranging from 2.8 to 4.5 meters. Fisherfolk and operators of small sea vessels are strongly advised against venturing into these waters due to hazardous sea conditions.
- Central Luzon: Moderate to strong northeasterly winds are forecasted, with coastal waters anticipated to be moderate to rough, exhibiting wave heights between 1.2 to 3.1 meters. Caution is advised for those engaging in marine activities.
- Rest of the Country: Light to moderate winds from the northeast are expected, resulting in slight to moderate coastal waters with wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters. While conditions are generally safer, vigilance is still recommended for small sea vessels.
Advisory:
Pagasa emphasizes the importance of preparedness and caution, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. Residents in regions expecting significant precipitation should remain vigilant for potential flash floods and landslides. It is crucial to stay updated with local announcements and heed any evacuation orders if necessary.
For those involved in marine activities, particularly in Northern and Central Luzon, the forecasted rough sea conditions pose significant risks. Fisherfolk and operators of small sea vessels are advised to exercise extreme caution or avoid setting sail until conditions improve.
The public is encouraged to regularly monitor weather updates from Us and Pagasa to stay informed about any changes in weather conditions. Preparedness and timely response to weather advisories are key to ensuring safety during this period.