The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) continues to affect parts of Mindanao on Monday, bringing cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms, while hot and humid weather persists across much of the country, according to PAGASA.
In its weather bulletin for May 18, PAGASA said no low pressure area or tropical cyclone is being monitored inside or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Weather forecaster Alzar D. Aurelio said clusters of clouds over Southern Philippines are being caused by the ITCZ, which is currently affecting Southern Mindanao.
Affected areas include the Zamboanga Peninsula, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Davao Region, and SOCCSKSARGEN, where cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms are expected.
Residents in these areas were advised to remain cautious due to possible moderate to heavy downpours that could trigger flooding or landslides.
PAGASA said the ITCZ may continue affecting Mindanao on Tuesday before gradually moving away from the country by Wednesday. Once the weather system weakens, easterlies are expected to become the dominant weather system across the country.
Meanwhile, generally fair weather conditions are expected over Luzon, although localized thunderstorms remain likely in the afternoon or evening.
Temperatures are also expected to remain high in several areas nationwide. Metro Manila may experience temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius, while Tuguegarao City could hit 35 degrees Celsius. Laoag City is also expected to experience high temperatures, while Legazpi City may record up to 34 degrees Celsius.
PAGASA also warned of dangerous heat index levels in some parts of the country.
On Sunday, the heat index reached 45°C in Dagupan City, Baler, Infanta in Quezon, Cavite, and Cuyo, Palawan. Metro Manila recorded heat index levels ranging from 40°C to 43°C.
For Monday, the forecast heat index may again reach 45°C in Coron, Palawan; Cuyo, Palawan; and San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. Metro Manila may experience heat index levels between 40°C and 42°C.
Despite the rains affecting parts of Mindanao, PAGASA said sea conditions across the country will remain slight to moderate, with no gale warning currently in effect.
The sun rose at 5:28 a.m. and is expected to set at 6:17 p.m., PAGASA added.
