Manila: The prevailing easterlies are set to usher in warm and humid weather across the Philippines, with only isolated rain showers expected, the national weather bureau announced Wednesday. This weather pattern comes as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) ceases to affect the country, particularly the Mindanao region. According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) weather specialist Chenel Dominguez highlighted that the Visayas, Mimaropa, and Bicol Region will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies accompanied by isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the influence of the easterlies. Localized thunderstorms are anticipated to persist, resulting in isolated rains over Metro Manila and other parts of the country, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Dominguez noted that Metro Manila's heat index is forecast to reach between 39°C to 41°C, while San Ildefonso, Bulacan, is expected to see the highest heat index of 45°C. Additionally, light to moderate winds and slight to moderate coastal waters are projected to prevail across the nation, maintaining relatively calm maritime conditions.