Southwest Monsoon and ITCZ Bring Rainy Weekend
Rainy weather will affect several parts of the country this long weekend due to the combined impact of the southwest monsoon and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), local weather authorities said on Wednesday, June 4. The southwest monsoon, known locally as “habagat,” is expected to bring light to moderate rains, especially over northern and western Luzon.
On Thursday, June 5, weather specialist Benison Estareja said that these rains will persist in these areas. Meanwhile, scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are forecast over the Zamboanga Peninsula, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and Soccsksargen. These are caused by the ITCZ, a weather system where winds from the northern and southern hemispheres meet, generating rain clouds.
Possible Low Pressure Area Could Increase Rain
Estareja also mentioned that a low pressure area (LPA) might develop over the Philippine Sea between Friday and Sunday, June 6 to 8. If this happens, it could bring additional rain showers to the Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga Region during the long weekend.
The LPA could also strengthen the habagat, resulting in more cloudy skies and scattered rains over the western parts of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Areas likely affected include Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, BARMM, Soccsksargen, and Northern Mindanao.
Weather Outlook and Safety Reminders
Meanwhile, the rest of Luzon and Mindanao will see partly cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms throughout the forecast period. Estareja urged the public, especially travelers, to stay updated on weather conditions and prepare for possible flash floods or landslides in vulnerable locations.
The long weekend holiday comes with the nationwide observance of Eid’l Adha, or Feast of Sacrifice, on Friday, declared a regular holiday. Travelers and residents are advised to take precautions as weather disturbances continue to affect the country.
For more news and updates on weather forecasts, visit Filipinokami.com.