Storm watch: LPA could strengthen after hitting Luzon

Cloudy skies and rainy conditions are expected to persist across most parts of Luzon and the western sections of the country due to the combined effects of the southwest monsoon and a low-pressure area (LPA).

As of 3 PM, Sunday, the LPA was located 215 kilometers east of Baler, Aurora, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The weather bureau said the system has a “medium” chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.

PAGASA Weather Specialist Veronica Torres said there is an increased likelihood that the LPA will cross the Luzon landmass.

“We are seeing that the LPA will cross the landmass, and once it’s over the West Philippine Sea, there’s a chance that it will strengthen into a tropical depression,” Torres said.

Aside from the LPA, the southwest monsoon or habagat is also bringing rains to western parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Torres noted that heavier rainfall is likely in Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, and Antique.

Based on PAGASA’s weather advisory, moderate to heavy rains — ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters — are expected in most parts of Central Luzon, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and the Bicol Region until Monday afternoon.

No gale warning has been issued, but moderate to rough sea conditions are possible over the waters of Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, and the Kalayaan Islands.