LPA off northeast Mindanao moves closer

MANILA, Philippines — After the state weather bureau officially declared the onset of the rainy season, a low-pressure area (LPA) east of northeastern Mindanao was spotted moving closer to the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

As of 3 p.m. yesterday, the LPA was located approximately 1,120 kilometers east of the Caraga region and is forecast to enter PAR within 24 hours.

While the system is not expected to intensify into a tropical depression, its trough or extension
 is projected to bring cloudy skies and rain over parts of Eastern Visayas and Mindanao.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) also reminded the public about possible “monsoon breaks,” or days without rain, due to prevailing wind systems such as easterlies.

The southwest monsoon or habagat is now beginning to influence weather patterns across the country, particularly affecting Palawan, Western Visayas and portions of Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula. Cloudy skies with scattered rain are expected in these areas.

No gale warning has been issued, but localized thunderstorms and rain showers remain likely, especially for small sea vessels navigating open waters.

In Metro Manila and Northern Luzon, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms are anticipated. Legazpi City and other parts of Bicol, meanwhile, are likely to experience overcast conditions and sustained rainfall due to the LPA’s trough.

Forecasts for the weekend through Monday indicate continued cloudiness and rain in Visayas cities such as Cebu, Iloilo and Tacloban.

In Mindanao, areas like Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga are expected to experience rainy weather, while Metro Davao is forecast to remain mostly cloudy with minimal rainfall.

Should the LPA develop into a tropical depression, it will be named “Auring,” marking the first storm of 2025.

The agency advised residents to take precautions against potential flooding and to monitor advisories through official PAGASA platforms.