ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Thursday warned residents in Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi to prepare for moderate to at times heavy rains as the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), enhanced by Tropical Depression Henry, continues to affect the western section of Mindanao.
In its 5 a.m. regional weather forecast for Mindanao, PAGASA said Tropical Depression Henry was estimated at 305 kilometers west of Dagupan City, Pangasinan as of 3 p.m. Wednesday. The cyclone packed maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour and gustiness of up to 55 kph while moving north-northwestward at 30 kph.
Although the weather disturbance is already far from Mindanao, it continues to enhance the Southwest Monsoon, bringing widespread cloudiness and thunderstorms across western Mindanao.
Heavy Rains Expected in Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi
PAGASA forecast cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms over Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Isabela City, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi throughout the next 24 hours.
The weather bureau warned of possible flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas, due to periods of heavy rainfall.
Areas under heavy rain warning
Southwest Monsoon
- Zamboanga City
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Zamboanga Sibugay
- Isabela City
- Basilan
- Tawi-Tawi
Possible flash floods and landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains
Temperatures in these areas are expected to range from 24°C to 34°C, with light to moderate winds coming from the south to southeast. Coastal waters will remain slight to moderate, with wave heights between 0.6 and 1.2 meters.
Localized Thunderstorms Over the Rest of Mindanao
The rest of Mindanao—including Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga, and most areas of BARMM—will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms caused by localized convective activity.
PAGASA noted that while rainfall will generally be less widespread than in western Mindanao, severe thunderstorms may still trigger flash floods or landslides in vulnerable communities.
Regional Temperature Outlook
| Region/Province | Forecast Temperature |
|---|---|
| Bukidnon | 21°C – 30°C |
| Camiguin | 24°C – 31°C |
| Metro Davao | 25°C – 31°C |
| Davao del Norte | 25°C – 33°C |
| North Cotabato | 25°C – 33°C |
| Agusan del Norte | 25°C – 34°C |
| Surigao del Sur | 25°C – 33°C |
| Lanao del Sur | 22°C – 27°C |
Sea Conditions Remain Generally Safe
Across Mindanao, winds will be light to moderate from the south to southeast, while coastal waters will stay slight to moderate. PAGASA said sea travel remains generally safe for small vessels, but fishermen and operators of light boats are advised to monitor local weather updates, particularly in areas affected by stronger monsoon rains.
PAGASA Advisories
Residents in western Mindanao are urged to:
- Monitor official PAGASA bulletins and local disaster advisories.
- Avoid crossing swollen rivers and flooded roads.
- Be alert for possible landslides in mountainous areas.
- Secure boats and fishing equipment during thunderstorms.
PAGASA said it will continue to monitor Tropical Depression Henry and the Southwest Monsoon, which remain the primary weather systems influencing conditions across Mindanao through Friday.