The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Wednesday, May 20, said generally fair weather will prevail across most parts of the country due to the easterlies, although isolated thunderstorms and dangerous heat index levels remain possible.
According to PAGASA weather forecaster Chenel Dominguez, no tropical cyclone or low pressure area is currently being monitored inside or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Dominguez explained that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which previously affected Southern Mindanao, has already moved offshore and is no longer directly affecting the country.
Instead, easterlies or warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean are currently affecting Southern Luzon and the Visayas, bringing generally fair weather conditions nationwide.
Despite the generally clear skies, PAGASA warned that hot and humid weather will continue from late morning until afternoon, with isolated rain showers and localized thunderstorms expected to develop in the afternoon and evening.
The weather bureau advised the public to monitor PAGASA’s thunderstorm advisories through its official social media pages, especially during the late afternoon and nighttime hours.
Metro Manila is expected to experience temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, while Tuguegarao may see temperatures reaching up to 37°C. Other forecast temperatures include 25°C to 33°C in Laoag, 18°C to 25°C in Baguio, 23°C to 31°C in Tagaytay, and 26°C to 33°C in Legazpi.
Meanwhile, generally fair weather is also expected across Palawan, Visayas, and Mindanao, although localized thunderstorms remain likely later in the day.
PAGASA also noted that heat index levels remain dangerously high despite the increasing occurrence of afternoon rains.
Metro Manila recorded heat index levels ranging from 39°C to 41°C on Tuesday, while the highest heat index reached 46°C in San Ildefonso, Bulacan.
For Wednesday, Metro Manila is forecast to again experience heat index levels between 39°C and 41°C, while San Ildefonso, Bulacan may still reach 45°C.
Residents were advised to avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, particularly from noon until afternoon, and to bring protective items such as umbrellas for both intense heat and possible sudden rains.
No gale warning has been raised over any of the country’s seaboards.
