GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — Mindanao will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms on Thursday, October 29, as localized thunderstorms bring the possibility of sudden downpours across the island, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
In its Regional Weather Forecast for Mindanao issued at 5 a.m. on October 29, PAGASA warned that flash floods and landslides are possible during severe thunderstorms, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding and rain-induced slope failures.
The forecast is valid from 5 a.m. on Thursday until 5 a.m. on Friday, October 30, and covers the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Localized thunderstorms may bring sudden heavy rainfall
Despite periods of partly cloudy skies, residents should remain prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, as isolated thunderstorms may develop in different parts of Mindanao.
PAGASA advised that severe thunderstorms could trigger flash floods or landslides. Residents living near rivers, creeks, low-lying communities, and steep or unstable slopes should exercise caution during periods of intense rainfall.
Motorists and commuters should also be alert for reduced visibility and slippery roads during rain showers. Communities experiencing persistent or heavy rainfall should monitor local government advisories and follow instructions from disaster risk reduction and management offices.
Northeast to east winds, moderate coastal conditions
PAGASA forecast light to moderate winds coming from the northeast to east across Mindanao.
Coastal waters in areas covered by the regional forecast are expected to range from slight to moderate, with wave heights of approximately 0.6 to 2.1 meters.
Although these conditions are generally less hazardous than those associated with rough or very rough seas, small fishing boats and other small vessels should still consider prevailing local conditions before heading out to sea.
Fisherfolk and other coastal communities are encouraged to monitor weather updates, particularly if thunderstorms develop near their areas.
Temperature outlook across Mindanao
Temperatures will vary across the island, with several areas expected to experience afternoon highs reaching 35°C to 36°C.
In the Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga City is forecast to have temperatures of 25°C to 33°C. Zamboanga del Norte will range from 25°C to 36°C, Zamboanga del Sur from 24°C to 33°C, and Zamboanga Sibugay from 24°C to 35°C. Isabela City is expected to record temperatures between 25°C and 33°C.
Across Northern Mindanao, Bukidnon will experience temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C, while Camiguin is forecast to have 25°C to 32°C. Lanao del Norte will range from 25°C to 32°C, Misamis Occidental from 25°C to 36°C, and Misamis Oriental from 25°C to 32°C.
In the Davao Region, Metro Davao and Davao del Norte are forecast to experience temperatures of 26°C to 34°C. Davao del Sur will range from 26°C to 35°C, while Davao Oriental is expected to record 24°C to 36°C. Davao de Oro will have temperatures of 23°C to 34°C, and Davao Occidental will range from 25°C to 32°C.
For SOCCSKSARGEN, North Cotabato is forecast to have temperatures of 23°C to 33°C. South Cotabato will range from 24°C to 34°C, Sultan Kudarat from 24°C to 35°C, and Sarangani from 25°C to 34°C.
In the Caraga Region, Agusan del Norte will experience temperatures of 25°C to 35°C, while Agusan del Sur will range from 24°C to 34°C. Surigao del Norte is forecast to have 26°C to 33°C, Surigao del Sur 24°C to 33°C, and the Dinagat Islands 26°C to 34°C.
Across BARMM, Cotabato City is expected to record temperatures of 24°C to 34°C. Basilan will range from 25°C to 33°C, Lanao del Sur from 22°C to 31°C, Sulu from 25°C to 33°C, and Tawi-Tawi from 26°C to 33°C. Maguindanao del Norte is forecast to have temperatures of 24°C to 35°C, while Maguindanao del Sur will range from 24°C to 34°C.
Residents urged to remain alert
With thunderstorms possible across all major regions of Mindanao, residents are encouraged to take precautions before traveling, working outdoors, or engaging in activities near waterways and mountainous terrain.
Those in flood-prone communities should watch for rapidly rising water levels, while residents near hillsides and slopes should be alert for signs of possible landslides, especially after prolonged or intense rainfall.
The public should continue monitoring official PAGASA bulletins and local disaster response advisories for updated weather information.