MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported on Monday (22 April 2024) that the trough of a low-pressure area (LPA) beyond the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) is poised to usher in rain showers across certain areas of Mindanao.

“While the LPA is not expected to intensify into a tropical cyclone, it has generated clusters of clouds along its trough, resulting in anticipated rainfall, particularly affecting Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi,” stated Obet Badrina from PAGASA.

Scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are projected for these regions, with the possibility of moderate to heavy rainfall leading to potential flash floods or landslides.

Badrina mentioned the likelihood of the LPA dissipating within the day.

“There is a low probability of the country experiencing a tropical cyclone this week,” he added.

Concurrently, he noted that warm conditions will persist throughout Luzon and the Visayas.

“Localized thunderstorms may bring isolated showers,” Badrina remarked.

Temperatures could soar up to 38°C in Tuguegarao and 36°C in Metro Manila.

Zamboanga City is forecasted to experience temperatures reaching up to 35°C, while Kalayaan Islands and Puerto Princesa may see temperatures up to 34°C.

Heat indices of 42°C and 43°C are expected in the following areas:

Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 43°C

Aparri, Cagayan – 43°C

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 42°C

Infanta, Quezon – 44°C

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 44°C

Aborlan, Palawan – 44°C

Legazpi, Albay – 43°C

Virac, Catanduanes – 43°C

Masbate City, Masbate – 43°C

CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur – 45°C

Roxas City, Capiz – 42°C

Iloilo City, Iloilo – 42°C

Dumangas, Iloilo – 42°C

Catarman, Northern Samar – 42°C

Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 43°C

The heat index reflects what the temperature feels like to the human body when combined with relative humidity.

Under heat indices categorized as ‘dangerous’ or ranging from 41°C to 51°C, individuals are susceptible to heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Prolonged exposure to the sun could also lead to heat stroke.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts light to moderate winds and slight to moderate seas across the archipelago.

(By el Amigo/MNM)