Weather Twin Weather Systems Threaten Philippines with Heavy Rains

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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has reported two low-pressure areas (LPAs) within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), posing significant weather threats. In its latest update, PAGASA identified one LPA positioned 405 kilometres east of Calayan, Cagayan. Another LPA is situated 1,220 kilometres east of Southeastern Luzon and is nearing the boundary of PAR.

 

Both systems have a medium likelihood of developing into tropical depressions within the next 24 hours, according to the agency. This categorisation indicates a significant potential, just one step below the highest alert level.

 

LPAs can evolve into tropical depressions when organised thunderstorms form over warm ocean waters. If conditions permit, these can intensify further into tropical storms or even typhoons, which can bring severe weather conditions.

 

In its 24-hour forecast, PAGASA warns of monsoon rains—locally known as the habagat—affecting Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, and Occidental Mindoro. These areas are under an orange rainfall warning, signalling intense rain with potential widespread flooding in urban and low-lying regions. The risk of floods and landslides is prominent due to the heavy downpours.

 

Additionally, the Ilocos Region, Benguet, Tarlac, Marinduque, and Oriental Mindoro are expected to experience occasional rains due to the habagat. In these regions, moderate to heavy rains could prompt flooding or landslides in vulnerable areas.

 

Furthermore, the habagat is responsible for bringing cloudy skies accompanied by scattered rain showers or thunderstorms across the Visayas, the remainder of Luzon, Zamboanga Peninsula, Caraga, Northern Mindanao, and the Davao Region. PAGASA cautions that severe thunderstorms in these areas could result in flash floods and landslides.

 

In contrast, the rest of Mindanao anticipates partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms over the coming day. The trough of the second LPA is particularly influencing Cagayan Valley, leading to cloudy skies and scattered rains with thunderstorms.

 

PAGASA forecasts moderate to strong winds in Luzon and Visayas, coupled with moderate to rough seas in the western Luzon regions, where waves may reach heights of 2.5 to 3.1 meters. Coastal areas in eastern Northern Luzon and other parts of Luzon and Visayas could see waves reaching 1.5 to 2.5 meters.

 

Once an LPA develops into a tropical depression within the PAR, PAGASA assigns it a name. The next name in the current list is "Dante." As municipalities brace for severe weather, several local governments have already suspended classes for Tuesday, July 22.

 

These developments highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness, as the Philippines navigates the inherent challenges posed by these weather systems. Residents in affected regions are advised to stay informed and follow guidance from local authorities.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Phil Star 2025-07-21