Residents of Palawan and parts of western Luzon are preparing for intensified rainfall as the southwest monsoon, locally known as the habagat, continues to strengthen.
Pagasa Weather Specialist Chenel Dominguez reported that the LPA, currently about 1,255 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao, is unlikely to develop into a typhoon in the short term.
However, its associated trough is already enhancing rainfall over parts of Eastern Visayas and Mindanao and is expected to increase the intensity of the habagat in affected regions.
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“The approaching LPA will strengthen the habagat, resulting in more widespread rain, particularly over western Luzon and Palawan,” Dominguez explained.
Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers are forecast across Batanes, the Babuyan Islands, the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Zambales, and Bataan due to the persistent habagat.
Metro Manila and nearby Luzon areas can expect partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with isolated rain showers, especially in the afternoon and evening.
Palawan, along with Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, is also facing a high chance of rainfall as the southwest monsoon intensifies. Meanwhile, most parts of Visayas and Mindanao will enjoy generally clear weather, though localized thunderstorms may develop later in the day, potentially causing brief but heavy downpours.
While typhoons often dominate headlines, the southwest monsoon remains a significant driver of seasonal weather in the Philippines, especially when strengthened by low-pressure systems like the current LPA.
In Palawan, this combination often brings prolonged periods of heavy rain, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Communities in Palawan are urged to stay alert and monitor weather updates as authorities anticipate the continuing effects of the habagat compounded by the incoming low-pressure area.
Early preparations can help mitigate the impact of potential flooding and ensure safety amid these seasonal weather challenges.