Manila: A low pressure area (LPA) and the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) will bring rains across the Visayas and Mindanao, the weather bureau said.
According to Philippines News Agency, as of 3 a.m., the LPA was located 440 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) indicated that the LPA is embedded along the ITCZ and has a slim chance of developing into a tropical cyclone in the next 24 hours. However, it is expected to bring scattered rains and thunderstorms over Eastern and Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Davao Region, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate. The rest of the Visayas and Mindanao will also experience scattered rains and thunderstorms due to the ITCZ.
PAGASA warned that moderate to heavy rains in these areas could result in flash floods or landslides. Elsewhere in the country, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are expected due to the easterlies. Light to moderate winds and slight to moderate coastal waters will prevail across the archipelago.
The heat index, an indicator of the temperature felt by the human body when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature, is forecasted to reach between 42°C and 45°C in over 20 areas. The heat index could peak at 45°C in Infanta, Quezon, and 44°C in Iba, Zambales, and Ambulong, Tanauan Batangas. A 43°C heat index is expected in areas including Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Cubi Pt. Subic Bay, Olongapo City; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Sangley Point, Cavite City; Alabat, Quezon; Cuyo, Palawan; and Masbate City. Meanwhile, a 42°C heat index is forecasted in Sinait, Ilocos Sur; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; ISU Echague, Isabela; Baler (Radar), Aurora; CLSU Mu±oz, Nueva Ecija; TAU Camiling, Tarlac; Tayabas City, Quezon; Mulanay, Quezon; Calapan, Oriental Mindoro; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Daet, Camarines Norte; Legazpi City, Albay; CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur; and Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte.
PAGASA emphasized that under 'danger' level conditions, which range from 42°C to 51°C, the public is warned of increased risks of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke with prolonged exposure.
