Residents across Mindanao are advised to prepare for cloudy skies, scattered rains, and possible thunderstorms as unstable weather conditions persist due to the prevailing shear line, according to the latest forecast from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) under the Department of Science and Technology.
In its regional weather bulletin issued at 5:00 a.m. on February 19, 2026, PAGASA said that several areas, particularly Davao Region, Caraga, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), will experience generally cloudy skies with intermittent rains and thunderstorms.
Shear Line Brings Widespread Rains
The shear line—a weather system formed by the interaction of cold and warm air masses—continues to affect much of Mindanao, resulting in unsettled conditions. Because of this, moderate to at times heavy rainfall is expected in several provinces, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas.
PAGASA warned that communities near rivers, slopes, and flood-prone zones should remain alert, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
Strong Winds, Rough Seas in Eastern Mindanao
Coastal and eastern sections of Mindanao are expected to experience moderate to strong northeast winds, accompanied by moderate to rough seas ranging from 1.5 to 3.4 meters. These conditions may pose risks to small fishing boats and sea travel.
Meanwhile, the rest of Mindanao will experience light to moderate winds from the northeast to east, with slight to moderate sea conditions measuring between 0.6 and 2.5 meters.
Maritime authorities and local governments are urging fisherfolk and small vessel operators to exercise caution and heed weather advisories before heading out to sea.
Provincial Forecast Highlights
Several areas across the island are expected to remain under cloudy and rainy conditions over the next 24 hours:
- Zamboanga Peninsula: Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with occasional rainshowers and thunderstorms. Temperatures may range from 22°C to 32°C.
- Northern Mindanao: Persistent cloud cover with rain and thunderstorms, particularly in Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, and Camiguin.
- Davao Region: Cloudy skies with frequent rain and thunderstorms. Winds will be moderate to strong, with rough seas in coastal areas.
- SOCCSKSARGEN: Cloudy conditions with scattered rain and thunderstorms affecting North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani.
- Caraga Region: Provinces including Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands will experience strong winds and rough coastal waters.
- BARMM: Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Maguindanao provinces are forecast to have cloudy skies and occasional thunderstorms.
Daytime temperatures across Mindanao are expected to range between 19°C and 32°C, depending on location and elevation.
Safety Advisory
PAGASA reminded the public to remain vigilant, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides. Local disaster risk reduction offices are advised to monitor weather updates closely and prepare contingency plans.
Motorists are also urged to take extra caution on wet and slippery roads, while farmers and outdoor workers should plan activities around possible downpours.
For updates and emergency advisories, residents are encouraged to monitor official PAGASA channels and local government announcements.
As the shear line continues to influence weather patterns, authorities emphasize that preparedness and timely response remain key to minimizing risks during this period of unstable weather.