COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Residents across Mindanao should prepare for another day of unsettled weather as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers and localized thunderstorms across the island until Monday morning.
According to PAGASA’s Mindanao Regional Services Division (MINPRSD), the regional weather forecast issued at 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, remains valid until 5:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20.
Forecasters said most parts of Mindanao will experience generally fair weather during portions of the day, but localized thunderstorms developing in the afternoon and evening may bring sudden heavy rainfall capable of triggering flash floods and landslides, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Authorities advised residents living in flood-prone communities, along riverbanks, and near landslide-prone slopes to remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Across the region, light to moderate south to southwest winds will prevail, with coastal waters remaining slight to moderate, featuring wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 1.8 meters. Sea conditions are generally favorable for most small fishing vessels, although mariners are advised to exercise caution whenever thunderstorms develop over coastal waters.
Warm Temperatures Across the Island
Temperatures throughout Mindanao are expected to remain warm despite intermittent rainfall.
Several provinces are forecast to reach 34°C, including:
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Davao Oriental
- Davao de Oro
- North Cotabato
- Sultan Kudarat
- Agusan del Norte
- Basilan
- Maguindanao del Sur
Meanwhile, the coolest conditions are expected in the highland province of Lanao del Sur, where temperatures will range from 20°C to 29°C during the day and 21°C to 27°C overnight.
Regional Weather Outlook
In the Zamboanga Peninsula, including Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Isabela City, residents can expect partly cloudy skies becoming cloudy at times with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms throughout both day and night. Temperatures will range between 23°C and 35°C.
The Northern Mindanao provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental will also experience similar weather conditions. Camiguin may enjoy relatively fair weather during daytime before thunderstorms develop later in the day. Temperatures across the region are expected to range from 20°C to 33°C.
The Davao Region, including Metro Davao, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental, will likewise see partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms. Maximum temperatures are forecast between 32°C and 34°C, while nighttime temperatures will settle between 24°C and 32°C.
Residents in SOCCSKSARGEN, covering North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, should also anticipate localized thunderstorms capable of producing heavy downpours. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 31°C to 34°C.
In the Caraga Region, including Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands, similar weather conditions are expected with occasional thunderstorms throughout the forecast period. Temperatures will generally range from 23°C to 34°C.
Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), covering Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, and Maguindanao del Sur, will continue to experience partly cloudy skies interrupted by isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms. Temperatures across BARMM will range from 20°C to 34°C, with cooler conditions prevailing over Lanao del Sur.
Public Advisory
PAGASA reminded the public that although much of Mindanao may experience periods of sunshine, localized thunderstorms can develop rapidly, bringing intense rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds over affected areas.
Motorists are urged to drive cautiously during heavy rains, while residents in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides should closely monitor official weather advisories and heed instructions from local disaster risk reduction and management offices if weather conditions worsen.
Fisherfolk and operators of small sea vessels are likewise encouraged to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into the sea whenever thunderstorms are observed, despite the generally slight to moderate sea conditions forecast across Mindanao.