A low pressure area (LPA) being monitored east of Mindanao is unlikely to develop into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 to 48 hours, but its trough or extension will continue to bring rains over parts of the country, according to PAGASA on Friday, May 22.
In its latest update, PAGASA said the LPA was last spotted around 940 kilometers east of Southern Mindanao.
Despite the system’s weak circulation and low chance of intensifying into a storm, its trough is expected to bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms over Caraga and Davao regions.
Light to moderate rains are likely over the eastern section of Mindanao, particularly in Caraga and Davao Region.
Meanwhile, easterlies will continue affecting Luzon and Visayas, bringing generally fair but hot and humid weather conditions across much of the country.
Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon are expected to experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with chances of isolated thunderstorms or rain showers in the afternoon or evening.
PAGASA said temperatures in Metro Manila may range from 26°C to 35°C on Friday, while Tuguegarao City could experience temperatures as high as 38°C.
The weather bureau also warned of dangerous heat index levels in several areas nationwide.
Metro Manila recorded heat index values ranging from 42°C to 44°C on Thursday, while Dagupan City, Pangasinan logged the highest heat index in the country at 47°C, already under the “danger” category.
For Friday, PAGASA said Metro Manila may again experience a heat index of 42°C to 44°C.
Other areas expected to reach a 45°C heat index include Sangley Point in Cavite, Dagupan City in Pangasinan, Tuguegarao City in Cagayan, Baler in Aurora, San Ildefonso in Bulacan, and Alabat in Quezon.
PAGASA reminded the public to avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, warning that continued exposure may cause heat stress, heat cramps, or heat stroke.
No gale warning has been raised over any seaboard, while coastal waters across the country are expected to remain slight to moderate, the agency added.
