WIDE swaths of Luzon and the western section of the Visayas are bracing for extended wet weather as the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat, is projected to bring persistent rainfall to several regions over the next five days, state meteorologists reported on Sunday, Aug. 16.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), moderate to heavy rains ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters are expected to hit key provinces in Northern and Central Luzon before spreading toward Southern Luzon and parts of the Visayas as the week progresses.
In a morning weather bulletin, PAGASA weather specialist Aldczar Aurelio explained that current data and analysis indicate monsoon activity will continue unabated through at least August 19.
From Sunday through Monday noon, Aug. 17, continuous rainfall is forecast to concentrate over Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, and Zambales.
By Monday afternoon through Tuesday noon, Aug. 18, the rain belt will expand southward, covering Bataan and Occidental Mindoro alongside the northern provinces.
The heaviest concentration of monsoon rains is projected between Tuesday and Wednesday noon, Aug. 19, affecting an expanded list of provinces including Tarlac, Pampanga, Cavite, Batangas, and Antique in the Western Visayas.
Weather authorities warned that actual rainfall totals could be significantly higher in elevated and mountainous regions.
Because previous weather systems have already saturated the ground in many areas, the bureau cautioned that additional precipitation heightens the risk of flash floods in urbanized and low-lying communities, as well as destructive landslides along mountain slopes.
Meanwhile, Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, and the Visayas will contend with partly cloudy to overcast skies accompanied by localized rain showers and thunderstorms. Mindanao and the Bicol Region are expected to enjoy generally fairer weather, though afternoon or evening thunderstorms remain likely.
PAGASA also confirmed it is monitoring a low-pressure area (LPA) located 2,335 kilometers east-northeast of extreme Northern Luzon, well outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Meteorologists stated the system is expected to dissipate shortly and poses no threat to any part of the archipelago.
