By El Amigo
MANILA — Filipinos in several parts of the country should keep their umbrellas and rain gear handy as the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat continues to dump rains over Luzon and the Visayas today and tomorrow, with the possibility of heavier downpours raising the risk of flooding and landslides.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the prevailing Habagat will continue to affect the country, while a possible low-pressure area west of Luzon may further strengthen the monsoon and bring additional rains to the western portion of Luzon.
PAGASA said Zambales, Bataan and Occidental Mindoro are expected to experience monsoon rains today, Sept. 9. Occasional rains are also expected in Metro Manila, the Ilocos Region, Abra, Benguet, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite and Batangas.
The rest of Luzon and the Visayas may see cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms, while Mindanao is likely to experience partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
The continuing rains could spell trouble for communities already vulnerable to flooding and landslides.
PAGASA warned that moderate to heavy rains may cause flash floods and landslides, particularly in areas with saturated soil, steep slopes and communities located near rivers and other waterways.
The wet weather is expected to persist tomorrow, Sept. 10, with monsoon rains continuing over Zambales, Bataan and Occidental Mindoro.
Metro Manila and parts of northern, central and southern Luzon may likewise experience occasional rains. These include the Ilocos Region, Abra, Benguet, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite and Batangas.
PAGASA said the possible circulation west of Luzon could influence the Habagat and enhance monsoon rains over western Luzon. This means residents in affected areas should not let up on precautions even during periods when rainfall temporarily weakens.
The weather bureau urged residents in flood- and landslide-prone communities to remain vigilant and closely monitor official advisories.
Drivers are also advised to slow down during heavy rain, particularly on roads with poor visibility or a history of flooding.
For communities near rivers and streams, residents should watch for sudden increases in water levels and be prepared to move to safer areas if instructed by local authorities.
PAGASA’s latest forecasts indicate that the Habagat will remain an important weather system affecting western Luzon and parts of the Visayas, keeping the country on alert for more rain in the coming days.
ia/xf
