The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the easterlies are causing cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms over the eastern portion of Visayas and Mindanao.

Based on the 24–hour weather forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration PAGASA, the effects of the ITCZ will be felt starting Thursday afternoon.

“Starting this afternoon, the effects of the ITCZ — the weather system in which winds from the northern hemisphere converge with the southern hemisphere, will bring cloudiness over Eastern Visayas and Mindanao,” PAGASA Weather Specialist Benison Estareja said.

Despite the warm temperatures, Estareja noted the possibility of light rains and thunderstorms during afternoon and evening.

Ahead of the Holy Week, Estareja noted that there is no sea travel suspension.

“In the coming days, until Holy Week, we are not expecting sea travel suspension. Usually, the waves will range between 0.5 meters to 1 meter, and if there are thunderstorms, it could rise up to 2.1 meters.”

For Friday, a maximum heat index of 43°C is forecasted over Dagupan, Pangasinan, Olongapo City, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro and Coron, Palawan.