PAGASA: Low chance of cyclone, but monsoon rains to persist

A low pressure area (LPA) has formed over the Philippine Sea, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sunday.

As of 3:00 PM, the weather disturbance was last spotted 1,215 kilometers east of Southeastern Luzon. It has a low chance of developing into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours.

Weather Specialist Veronica Torres said the LPA is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in the coming days and may enhance the southwest monsoon.

While it is likely to strengthen into a tropical cyclone later this week, it is forecast to move away from the country.

Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon is currently affecting the western sections of Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

“Fellow citizens, especially those who have been experiencing continuous rain in recent days, are advised to stay alert for possible landslides and flooding,” PAGASA warned.

Afternoon thunderstorms are also expected in Metro Manila from Tuesday to Thursday.