By el Amigo
MANILA, Philippines — The southwest monsoon (Habagat) continued to dump moderate to heavy rains over large parts of the country on Friday after Tropical Depression Maymay weakened into a low-pressure area (LPA), prompting state weather forecasters to warn of possible flooding and landslides in vulnerable communities.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the former tropical cyclone no longer poses a direct storm threat but continues to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing widespread rains over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas.
PAGASA said Metro Manila, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, and several nearby provinces may continue to experience periods of moderate to at times intense rainfall throughout the day. Residents in low-lying and mountainous areas were advised to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides.
The weather bureau also noted that while Maymay has weakened into an LPA, the prevailing Habagat remains the primary weather system affecting much of the country. Thunderstorms are likewise expected over many areas during the afternoon and evening.
Due to persistent rains, several local government units suspended classes on Friday as a precaution against possible flooding and hazardous road conditions.
PAGASA urged the public to continue monitoring official weather advisories, particularly those living near rivers, coastal communities, and landslide-prone areas, as rainfall may intensify depending on localized thunderstorms and the continuing effects of the southwest monsoon.
