MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of unstable weather conditions across Mindanao as easterlies continue to affect the region, bringing isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms that could trigger flash floods and landslides.
In its regional forecast issued at 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, PAGASA said Mindanao will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms from 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. Wednesday.
Weather specialists cautioned that while rains may be intermittent, severe thunderstorms could still pose significant risks, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas prone to flooding and landslides.
Winds and Sea Conditions
Winds across the island will be light to moderate, blowing from the northeast to north, while coastal waters will remain slight to moderate, with wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters. However, PAGASA advised small sea vessels to remain cautious during thunderstorms, which may cause sudden rough sea conditions.
Regional Outlook
Across the Zamboanga Peninsula, including Zamboanga City and the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay, residents can expect partly cloudy skies with occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures will range between 22°C and 34°C, with slightly cooler conditions at night.
In Northern Mindanao, including Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental, similar weather patterns will prevail. Daytime temperatures may climb to 33°C, while early morning lows could dip to 17°C in upland areas such as Bukidnon.
The Davao Region, including Metro Davao, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental, will also experience partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C. Winds in coastal areas are expected to be moderate, with slightly rougher seas.
SOCCSKSARGEN and Caraga Under Similar Conditions
In the SOCCSKSARGEN region, covering North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, residents should prepare for intermittent rains and thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C.
Meanwhile, the Caraga Region, including Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands, will also see similar weather disturbances, with moderate winds and coastal waters.
BARMM Areas on Alert
In the Bangsamoro region, including Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, and Maguindanao del Sur, scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms are also expected, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 34°C.
Public Advisory
PAGASA urged residents across Mindanao to remain vigilant, especially during intense thunderstorms, which may result in sudden flooding or landslides.
“Communities in high-risk areas should closely monitor local weather updates and be prepared for possible evacuations if conditions worsen,” the agency said.
The weather bureau also encouraged the public to report weather-related incidents and to coordinate with local disaster risk reduction offices as needed.
Further updates and advisories are available through PAGASA’s official channels.