MINDANAO – July 21, 2026 – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned residents across Mindanao to remain alert as the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) continues to affect the island, bringing partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms from 5:00 AM Tuesday, July 21, until 5:00 AM Wednesday, July 22.
According to PAGASA’s Mindanao Regional Services Division (MINPRSD), while much of Mindanao is not expected to experience widespread heavy rainfall, localized thunderstorms may become severe enough to trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in low-lying, flood-prone, and mountainous areas.
Authorities are advising the public to closely monitor weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms.
Habagat Continues to Influence Mindanao Weather
The prevailing Southwest Monsoon remains the dominant weather system affecting the entire island, resulting in intermittent rainshowers throughout the day and evening. Although many areas may begin the day with fair weather, atmospheric conditions remain favorable for the development of thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
Residents are reminded that thunderstorms can rapidly intensify, producing:
- Heavy downpours within a short period;
- Frequent lightning;
- Strong gusty winds; and
- Reduced visibility for motorists.
PAGASA emphasized that isolated thunderstorms should not be underestimated, as localized flooding can occur even in areas that experienced sunny conditions earlier in the day.
Light to Moderate Winds, Manageable Sea Conditions
Across Mindanao, light to moderate winds blowing from the southwest to west are expected to prevail.
Meanwhile, coastal waters surrounding the island will generally experience slight to moderate seas, with wave heights ranging from 0.6 to 1.8 meters, making conditions generally favorable for small fishing vessels and inter-island travel. However, mariners are still urged to exercise caution whenever thunderstorms develop offshore, as winds and waves may become temporarily rough.
Weather Outlook by Region
The weather pattern remains largely consistent across the different regions of Mindanao.
Zamboanga Peninsula, including Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Isabela City, will experience partly cloudy skies becoming cloudy at times with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to range from 23°C to 34°C, with the warmest conditions forecast in Zamboanga del Norte.
In Northern Mindanao, including Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental, similar weather conditions are expected. Temperatures will range from 20°C to 32°C, with Bukidnon remaining one of the cooler provinces due to its higher elevation.
Across the Davao Region, including Davao City (Metro Davao), Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental, residents can expect intermittent rainshowers and thunderstorms with temperatures generally ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
The SOCCSKSARGEN Region, covering North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, will likewise experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers. Daytime temperatures are forecast between 22°C and 31°C.
In the Caraga Region, including Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Dinagat Islands, scattered thunderstorm activity remains possible, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 33°C.
Residents across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)—including Cotabato City, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi—should also expect similar weather conditions. Temperatures across the region will range between 20°C and 32°C, accompanied by light to moderate winds and generally slight to moderate coastal waters.
Public Advised to Stay Prepared
Disaster management officials encourage residents, particularly those living near rivers, creeks, coastal communities, and landslide-prone slopes, to remain vigilant as localized thunderstorms may quickly escalate into hazardous weather events.
Motorists are advised to drive carefully during heavy rain due to slippery roads and reduced visibility, while farmers and fishermen should continuously monitor official weather advisories before conducting outdoor activities.
PAGASA also reminds the public to stay updated through official forecasts and warnings, especially as the Southwest Monsoon continues to influence weather conditions across Mindanao in the coming days.
While no widespread severe weather is currently forecast, localized thunderstorms remain capable of producing hazardous conditions, making preparedness and vigilance essential for communities across the island.