MANILA — As the northeast monsoon, locally known as “amihan,” and the easterlies persist, certain regions in the Philippines are set to grapple with ongoing rainfall, according to meteorological authorities on Thursday 30 Nov 2023).
The provinces of Apayao, Batanes, and Cagayan, including the Babuyan Islands, are expected to bear the brunt of the northeast monsoon, triggering moderate to heavy rains.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued warnings about the potential for flash floods and landslides in these areas.
Meanwhile, the Ilocos Region, the rest of the Cordillera Administrative Region, and the remaining parts of Cagayan Valley are anticipated to experience isolated light rains from the same weather system.
For the rest of the country, isolated rain showers are forecasted due to the easterlies and localized thunderstorms. PAGASA forecaster Patrick del Mundo emphasized the need for precautions, as heavy rains in these areas could lead to flooding and landslides.
Del Mundo also provided reassurance, noting the absence of any low-pressure area within and outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility. He mentioned a slim chance of a tropical cyclone entering or developing over the next five days.
Across Luzon, moderate to strong winds and moderate to rough seas are expected.
The northern and western seaboards of Northern Luzon, in particular, are projected to experience rough to very rough seas, prompting PAGASA to caution against sea travel for small seacrafts.
Mariners have been urged to remain in port or seek safe harbor.
In other areas, winds are anticipated to be light to moderate, accompanied by slight to moderate seas, according to PAGASA’s latest update.
(JR AMIGO/ai/mnm)
