Heavy cloud cover, scattered rains, and thunderstorms are expected across large parts of Mindanao as a shear line continues to influence weather conditions, according to the latest regional forecast issued at 5:00 a.m. on February 20 by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The weather advisory, valid from 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow, warns that regions including Caraga, the Davao Region, Northern Mindanao, and SOCCSKSARGEN will experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms caused by the prevailing shear line. Forecasters cautioned that moderate to occasionally heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Meanwhile, the rest of Mindanao is expected to have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the easterlies. Despite lighter conditions in some areas, authorities still warn residents to remain alert as sudden downpours may still cause localized flooding or landslides.
Winds and Sea Conditions
Moderate to strong northeast winds are forecast to affect the eastern section of Mindanao, producing moderate to rough seas ranging from 1.5 to 3.4 meters. Coastal communities and small sea vessels are advised to take precautionary measures.
In other parts of Mindanao, light to moderate winds from the northeast to east will prevail, with sea conditions expected to be slight to moderate, ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters.
Weather Outlook in Zamboanga Peninsula
Across Zamboanga City and nearby provinces in the Zamboanga Peninsula, weather conditions are expected to remain partly cloudy to cloudy with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.
- In Zamboanga del Norte, temperatures are forecast between 25°C and 30°C, with light to moderate northeast to east winds and slight to moderate coastal waters.
- Zamboanga del Sur may experience temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C under similar weather conditions.
- Zamboanga Sibugay is also expected to see scattered rain showers, with temperatures between 24°C and 31°C.
- In Isabela City, cloudy periods and thunderstorms may develop, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C.
Northern Mindanao Under Cloudy Skies
Provinces in Northern Mindanao are likely to experience more persistent rains and thunderstorms throughout the forecast period.
- Bukidnon is forecast to have cloudy skies with temperatures between 18°C and 30°C.
- Camiguin will experience similar conditions with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C.
- In Lanao del Norte, cloudy skies and rain showers may persist, with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C.
- Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental are also expected to experience rain-bearing clouds and thunderstorms through the day and night.
Rainy Conditions Continue in Davao Region
The Davao Region will remain under cloudy skies with rain showers and thunderstorms accompanied by moderate to strong northeast winds and moderate to rough seas in coastal areas.
Weather conditions are expected across Davao City and surrounding provinces such as Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental. Temperatures across the region are expected to range between 22°C and 30°C.
SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM Areas
Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are also forecast across SOCCSKSARGEN provinces including North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, with temperatures reaching up to around 31°C.
In the Bangsamoro region, including Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, and Maguindanao del Sur, weather conditions will range from partly cloudy to cloudy skies with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.
Advisory to Residents
PAGASA advised residents, especially those living near rivers, coastal communities, and landslide-prone areas, to remain vigilant as rains may intensify at times. Fisherfolk and small boat operators in eastern Mindanao are also urged to monitor sea conditions due to stronger winds and rougher waters.
Local disaster risk reduction and management offices are expected to continue monitoring weather developments and issue advisories as necessary while the shear line remains active over Mindanao.