A satellite view captures a powerful typhoon approaching the Philippine islands.
By Benny Reyes
MANILA – Fair weather conditions will dominate across the Philippines on Thursday in line with the observance of Araw ng Kagitingan, though isolated rain showers remain possible, according to PAGASA.
The state weather bureau said a ridge of a high-pressure area over Luzon continues to influence the country’s weather pattern, bringing generally clear to partly cloudy skies.
However, scattered thunderstorms may still develop, raising the risk of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
PAGASA is also monitoring a tropical depression located outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), far east of northeastern Mindanao. The weather system currently has sustained winds of 55 kph and gusts of up to 70 kph, moving slowly westward.
Forecasters noted that the cyclone is not expected to directly affect the country but remains under close observation. It will be locally named “Caloy” once it enters PAR.
In addition, high heat index levels are forecast, with Cotabato City, Maguindanao, and Dumangas, Iloilo possibly reaching 42°C. Metro Manila may experience slightly lower but still uncomfortable levels ranging from 37°C to 38°C.
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