Manila: A huge part of the country may experience scattered rains this weekend due to a tropical cyclone's trough as well as the possible prevalence of the southwest monsoon (habagat). A tropical depression outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility is forecast to enter on Saturday, and will be named Francisco. The cyclone was located 1,735 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas as of 3 p.m. Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the cyclone's trough will cause scattered rains and thunderstorms across Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and the Davao region from Saturday until Sunday. PAGASA likewise said habagat may prevail, bringing scattered rains and thunderstorms over the rest of Mindanao, Negros Island, and Palawan.

Localized thunderstorms and rain showers are also likely over the rest of the country. Meanwhile, PAGASA said the easterlies continue to cause rains in most parts of the country during the day. Visayas and Palawan will experience scattered rains and thunderstorms, while isolated rain showers or thunderstorms will prevail across Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Bicol Region, and the rest of Mimaropa due to the easterlies.

Moderate to heavy rains and severe thunderstorms could result in flash floods or landslides, PAGASA said.