MINDANAO — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms across Mindanao from 5:00 a.m. today, January 19, until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow, as localized thunderstorms persist over the region, raising the risk of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
In its regional weather forecast issued by PAGASA’s Mindanao–MINPRSD, the agency reported that as of 3:00 p.m. Sunday, the center of Tropical Storm “ADA” (international name: Nokaen) was located 195 kilometers northeast of Virac, Catanduanes. The storm packs maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near the center, with gusts reaching up to 80 kph, and is moving slowly northeastward—away from Mindanao.
Despite the storm’s distance, localized thunderstorm activity continues to affect much of Mindanao, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain alert, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas prone to flooding and landslides.
Widespread Rains, Moderate Winds Expected
PAGASA said partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms will prevail across Mindanao’s major regions, including the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Winds will generally be light to moderate, blowing from the northwest to southwest, while coastal waters are expected to be slight to moderate, with wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters. Fisherfolk and small sea-craft operators are advised to exercise caution, especially along open sea routes.
Regional Outlook Highlights
- Zamboanga Peninsula (Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Isabela City): Intermittent rainshowers and thunderstorms; temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C; slight to moderate seas.
- Northern Mindanao (Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental): Similar weather conditions with moderate winds in coastal provinces; temperatures between 19°C and 33°C.
- Davao Region (Metro Davao, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental): Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with thunderstorms; daytime highs reaching 34–35°C in some areas.
- SOCCSKSARGEN (North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani): Isolated thunderstorms; temperatures from 22°C to 34°C.
- Caraga (Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Islands): Moderate winds along coastal areas; slight to moderate seas; temperatures up to 34°C.
- BARMM (Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte and del Sur): Scattered rains and thunderstorms with moderate coastal conditions; temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C.
Public Advisory
PAGASA cautioned residents against complacency, noting that severe thunderstorms may trigger sudden flooding or landslides, particularly after prolonged rains. Local disaster risk reduction offices and communities in flood- and landslide-prone areas are advised to stay on alert and monitor official updates.
For the latest advisories, PAGASA urged the public to regularly check its official channels or contact its Mindanao office in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental.