MINDANAO — Widespread rains, gusty winds, and dangerous sea conditions are expected across large portions of Mindanao as a Low Pressure Area (LPA)—formerly named “ADA”—and a shear line continue to influence the region, according to the latest regional weather forecast issued by Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) through its Mindanao Regional Services Division (MINPRSD).
As of 3:00 PM on Friday, the LPA was located approximately 560 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur (7.8°N, 131.4°E). While the system remains offshore, its interaction with the prevailing northeast monsoon has enhanced cloud formation and rainfall, particularly over eastern Mindanao.
Eastern Mindanao Under Threat of Heavy Rains
PAGASA warned that Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan provinces, and Davao Oriental will experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms due to the shear line. Rainfall in these areas may be moderate to at times heavy, raising the risk of flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying, mountainous, and landslide-prone communities.
In Davao Oriental, winds are expected to be strong to gale-force from the northeast to north, resulting in rough to very rough sea conditions with wave heights ranging from 2.8 to 4.5 meters. PAGASA strongly advised small seacraft and fishing vessels to avoid venturing out to sea, while coastal communities are urged to remain on alert for possible coastal hazards.
Rest of Mindanao: Thunderstorms Still a Concern
Meanwhile, the rest of Mindanao—including Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)—will generally experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms caused by localized thunderstorm activity.
Despite generally lighter rainfall compared to eastern sections, PAGASA cautioned that severe thunderstorms could still trigger sudden flash floods and localized landslides, particularly during afternoon or evening hours.
Strong Winds, Rough Seas Persist
Across most coastal areas of Mindanao, moderate to strong northeast winds will prevail, generating moderate to rough seas with wave heights of 1.2 to 2.8 meters. Fisherfolk, sea travelers, and operators of small vessels are advised to exercise caution, while larger vessels are urged to closely monitor weather bulletins.
Temperature Outlook
Daytime temperatures across Mindanao are expected to range from 17°C to 34°C, with cooler conditions in elevated areas such as Bukidnon, and warmer temperatures in lowland and coastal provinces, particularly in parts of SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM.
Public Advisory
PAGASA reiterated its call for local government units, disaster response teams, and the public to stay vigilant, monitor official weather updates, and take precautionary measures against weather-related hazards. Residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas are advised to prepare for possible evacuations if conditions worsen.
For continuous updates, PAGASA encourages the public to regularly check official advisories through its website and local weather bulletins.