Cyclone looms before Christmas; longer nights ahead
Credit to Author: Romina Cabrera| Date: Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0800
MANILA, Philippines — There is a low potential for a tropical cyclone that may greet Filipinos on Christmas week, according to state weather forecasters.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecast a tropical cyclone-like vortex that may emerge from Dec. 20 to 26.
At this time, the vortex has a low threat of developing into a tropical cyclone, but it can emerge in the seas between Mindanao and the Visayas.
PAGASA is also monitoring a vortex in the northeastern portion of the Philippine area of responsibility that has a moderate chance of developing into a cyclone by Dec. 19.
Three weather systems are currently affecting different parts of the country, according to PAGASA.
The intertropical convergence zone is affecting Southern Mindanao and is bringing scattered rains over Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
The easterlies are bringing scattered rains and thunderstorms over the Bicol Region and Quezon province.
Light rains are forecast over Cagayan Valley, Apayao, Kalinga, Mountain Province and Ifugao due to the northeast monsoon.
The monsoon is also bringing isolated light rains over the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon and the rest of Cordillera Administrative Region.
Meanwhile, Metro Manila and the rest of the country may see isolated rains due to the easterlies.