Several weather systems are causing widespread rainfall across the Philippines on Thursday, January 2, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
State weather bureau specialist Obet Badrina explained that three weather systems are still currently affecting the country: the northeast monsoon (amihan), the shear line, and the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). The northeast monsoon is bringing light rains to Northern Luzon, particularly in Ilocos Norte and parts of the Cordillera Region. Meanwhile, the shear line, where warm and cold air masses collide, is causing heavy rains in Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, and Quezon province.
The ITCZ is affecting Visayas and Mindanao, with significant rainfall expected in Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and Davao Regions. These areas are likely to experience overcast skies with moderate to heavy rains and isolated thunderstorms.
“Malaki din yung chance ng mga pag-ulan sa malaking bahagi ng Kabisayaan, lalong-lalo na dito sa may Eastern Visayas, dulot ng ITCZ,” Badrina said.
PAGASA warned residents in low-lying and mountainous areas of potential flash floods and landslides, especially in regions with heavy rainfall such as Cagayan, Aurora, and Apayao.
Metro Manila is expected to experience partly cloudy skies with isolated light rains and thunderstorms. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Similar weather is expected in nearby regions, including CALABARZON and Central Luzon. In Northern Luzon, temperatures range from 16°C to 23°C in Baguio and 23°C to 28°C in Tuguegarao. Meanwhile, in Mindanao, Zamboanga and Davao will experience temperatures of 25°C to 32°C and 25°C to 31°C, respectively.
Although no low-pressure area is currently inside or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, PAGASA forecasts continued rainfall over the weekend. The shear line is expected to persist, bringing heavy rains to the eastern parts of Luzon.
No gale warnings are currently in effect, but PAGASA cautioned small sea vessels in Northern Luzon against moderate to rough seas caused by the amihan.
“Sa mga baybayin sa may Northern Luzon, inaasahan natin na lalakas ang hanging amihan sa mga susunod na araw,” Badrina noted.
