A weather system driven by localized thunderstorms is expected to affect large parts of Mindanao over the next 24 hours, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
In its 5:00 AM regional forecast issued on April 6, PAGASA said the entire Mindanao island will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms from 5:00 AM today until 5:00 AM tomorrow.
While conditions may remain generally fair for most of the day, weather disturbances could intensify, bringing heavy downpours that may trigger flash floods or landslides, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Zamboanga Peninsula: Intermittent Rains Expected
Across 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 chances of rainshowers and thunderstorms throughout the day and night.
Temperatures in the region will range between 23°C and 34°C during the day, slightly dropping at night. Winds will remain light to moderate coming from the east to northeast, with coastal waters staying slight to moderate, with wave heights between 0.6 and 1.5 meters.
Northern Mindanao: Warm Days with Thunderstorm Risks
In Northern Mindanao, including Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental, similar weather conditions will prevail.
Daytime temperatures could reach as high as 34°C, particularly in Bukidnon, while nighttime temperatures may dip to as low as 18°C in upland areas. Coastal conditions remain manageable, but authorities advise small seacraft operators to stay cautious during thunderstorms.
Davao Region: Hot and Humid with Afternoon Storms
The Davao Region, covering Metro Davao, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental, will experience warm and humid conditions, with temperatures peaking between 34°C and 35°C.
Localized thunderstorms are likely to develop in the afternoon or evening, bringing temporary but potentially intense rainfall.
SOCCSKSARGEN and Caraga: High Heat Index with Rain Threats
In SOCCSKSARGEN, including North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, temperatures could climb up to 36°C, among the highest in Mindanao.
Meanwhile, the Caraga Region, covering Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands, will continue to see scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms with moderate coastal conditions.
BARMM Areas: Cooler Temperatures in Upland Provinces
In 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, weather conditions remain consistent with the rest of Mindanao.
Lanao del Sur may experience cooler temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C, while other areas may see highs of up to 35°C.
Public Advisory
PAGASA advised residents across Mindanao to remain vigilant, especially during thunderstorms which may bring sudden heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds.
Communities in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas are urged to monitor local advisories and take precautionary measures. Fisherfolk and small vessel operators are also advised to exercise caution when venturing out to sea, particularly during periods of unstable weather.
Despite generally calm seas and manageable wind conditions, the unpredictability of localized thunderstorms poses risks that should not be underestimated, the agency said.