Tropical cyclone-like vortex over Mindanao area possible next week

A formation of tropical cyclone-like vortices is possible over the southern region of the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Based on the state weather bureau PAGASA’s Tropical Cyclone (TC) Threat Potential Forecast, a tropical cyclone-like vortex is expected to form over the area of Palawan and the Sulu Sea from 3-9 February, while another vortex is expected to form over Mindanao from 10-16 February.

A tropical cyclone-like vortex is a weather system that differs from a low-pressure area (LPA), which usually develops further into a tropical cyclone.

Despite the possible formation of these tropical cyclone vortices, PAGASA said that the likelihood of these systems developing into a tropical cyclone remains low.

PAGASA earlier stated that at least one tropical cyclone may enter the PAR this February. Last year, the typhoon season in the Philippines started in late May with Typhoon Aghon.

“There is still a low chance of typhoon formation. Normally in February, there is a small chance or only a few typhoons form,” PAGASA Weather Specialist Obet Badrina said.

For this week, Badrina reported that the northeast monsoon and the easterlies will continue to affect the country.

“The northeast monsoon will affect Northern and Central Luzon and it will bring light rains over Cagayan Valley and Cordillera,” he said.

Earlier today, the temperature dropped to 16.0°C in Baguio City and 19.1°C in Calayan, Cagayan.

Badrina also added that the provinces of Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Davao de Oro might experience light rains due to the prevalence of the easterlies, or the warm air from the Pacific.