On July 15 (local time), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), after tropical storm Josie weakened and left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the southwest monsoon Habagat continued to become the dominant weather pattern, increasing the risk of thunderstorms, flash floods and landslides in many areas.
According to the latest weather bulletin, Habagat mainly affects the western Luzon island area, bringing moderate winds and moderate rough seas conditions in many coastal areas north and west.
PAGASA warns that strong thunderstorms may occur in many localities, causing localized heavy rain in a short time. The agency noted the risk of flash floods, inundation and landslides that may occur in low-lying areas, riversides and hilly areas with steep terrain if the rain lasts.
Meanwhile, Metro Manila and most of the remaining areas across the country are forecast to have weather from cloudy to cloudy, accompanied by scattered showers and thunderstorms due to convection.
Regarding wind conditions, the northern and western areas of Luzon Island will record average winds, the main wind direction from southwest. Sea waves in coastal areas fluctuate at an average level, which may affect fishing activities and movement of small boats.
The remaining areas of the Philippines are forecast to have light to moderate winds, southeast to south, with the sea in a state from calm to slightly rough.
The new information was released just 1 day after PAGASA confirmed that tropical storm Josie had weakened into a tropical depression, before continuing to degrade to a low pressure area (LPA) and leaving the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
Although Typhoon Josie is no longer directly impacting, PAGASA said that the Habagat monsoon may still continue to maintain unfavorable weather patterns in the coming days, especially in the western and northern provinces of Luzon.
Authorities recommend that people regularly monitor weather forecasts, limit movement through areas at risk of landslides or deep flooding, and fishermen should consider sea conditions before going out to sea.
