Philippines Braces for Rain as ITCZ and Monsoon Loom

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The Philippines is gearing up for wet weather today, as two major weather systems, the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and the southwest monsoon (habagat), are set to bring rain to various parts of the country.

According to the latest bulletin from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), residents in the Kalayaan Islands should prepare for scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. This is due to the habagat, which is currently affecting the western sections of central and southern Luzon.

Further south, the provinces of Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental are expected to experience similar wet conditions. The ITCZ, which is a belt of low-pressure areas around the Earth near the equator, is bringing these rains and thunderstorms. Moderate to heavy rainfall in these regions could lead to flash floods or landslides, so residents are urged to stay alert.

Elsewhere in the country, isolated rain showers and thunderstorms are expected, caused by the habagat and localized weather disturbances. Despite the potential for rain, light to moderate winds and slight to moderate seas will continue to prevail across the archipelago.

Providing some reassurance, PAGASA forecaster Chenel Dominguez mentioned that a tropical cyclone currently outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility will have no direct impact on the country.

As the country remains on high alert for severe weather events, officials remind the public to keep informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and preparedness.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PNA 2025-06-26