Residents across Mindanao are advised to prepare for generally unstable weather conditions over the next 24 hours, as easterly winds continue to bring clouds, scattered rainshowers, and thunderstorms, according to the latest regional forecast issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
In its bulletin released at 5:00 a.m. on February 18, 2026, PAGASA said the prevailing easterlies will cause partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms across most parts of Mindanao until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow. The weather agency also warned of possible flash floods and landslides, particularly in areas that may experience severe thunderstorms.
Rough Seas in Eastern Mindanao
PAGASA noted that moderate to strong northeast winds will prevail over the eastern section of Mindanao, generating moderate to rough sea conditions with wave heights ranging from 1.5 to 2.8 meters. These conditions may pose risks to small fishing vessels and sea travel.
In contrast, the rest of Mindanao is expected to experience light to moderate northeast winds, with slight to moderate seas ranging from 0.6 to 1.8 meters.
Maritime authorities and local disaster offices are urging fisherfolk and boat operators to remain cautious and monitor weather updates closely.
Zamboanga Peninsula: Warm and Unsettled
In the Zamboanga Peninsula, including Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Isabela City, residents can expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with intermittent rainshowers and thunderstorms.
Temperatures in the area are forecast to range from 23°C to 32°C, while coastal waters will remain at slight to moderate levels. Winds will be light to moderate from the northeast.
Northern Mindanao: Scattered Rains Expected
Provinces in Northern Mindanao, including Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental, will also experience similar weather conditions.
Daytime temperatures may reach up to 32°C, with occasional thunderstorms likely, especially in the afternoon and evening. Coastal areas are expected to have slight to moderate sea conditions.
Davao Region: Increasing Cloudiness
Parts of the Davao Region, including Metro Davao, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental, are forecast to see increasing cloud cover and more frequent rainshowers.
Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental, in particular, may experience moderate to strong winds and rough seas, making marine travel potentially hazardous. Temperatures in the region will range between 22°C and 31°C.
SOCCSKSARGEN and Caraga: Thunderstorms Possible
In the SOCCSKSARGEN Region—covering North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani—weather will remain partly cloudy to cloudy, with isolated thunderstorms and temperatures reaching up to 33°C.
Meanwhile, the Caraga Region, including Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands, may experience stronger northeast winds and rougher seas, especially along eastern coastlines. Cloudy skies with rain and thunderstorms are expected to persist.
BARMM: Rainfall and Warm Temperatures
Areas under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), including Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, and Maguindanao del Sur, will also experience unsettled weather.
Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms are forecast, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 33°C. Coastal waters in most areas will remain slight to moderate.
Public Advised to Stay Alert
PAGASA reminded the public to remain vigilant, especially in flood- and landslide-prone communities. Local government units and disaster response teams are encouraged to stay on alert as thunderstorms may intensify without warning.
Residents are also advised to secure loose outdoor items, avoid crossing flooded roads, and suspend unnecessary sea travel during periods of rough weather.
For updates and emergency advisories, the public may visit PAGASA’s official website or contact its regional office in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental.
As easterlies continue to influence the country’s weather pattern, authorities stress that preparedness and timely information remain key to minimizing weather-related risks in Mindanao.