Pagasa explains how the combination LPA and “habagat” is expected to bring rain to the Philippines.
Ben Madilynn
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, (Pagasa), the combination of Low Pressure Areas (LPAs) and southwest monsoons, known locally as ‘habagat, has brought the Philippines much-needed rainfall. LPA (low atmospheric pressure) is a weather system which has boosted the southwest monsoon and caused widespread rainfall in the Philippines. This is a particularly good weather condition for agriculture as it replenishes reservoirs and provides moisture to crops.
Pagasa is closely monitoring the weather system in order to give timely advisories and warnings to the public. The agency is working to make sure that the right information and precautions are taken to minimize any risks. Heavy rainfall can cause flash floods or landslides. Many Filipinos have experienced dry spells, water shortages and other problems in their region. The combination of LPA and “habagat” is a welcome sight. It gives them hope that they can improve agricultural productivity and get relief from the scorching summer heat.
The combined effect of low pressure area off Quezon (LPA) and southwest monsoon is locally known as “habagat” The state-run weather agency announced on Thursday that rain will fall in most of the country over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Patrick del Mundo, a weather specialist with the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration(Pagasa), said that the LPA is estimated to be 295 kilometers east from Infanta in the same province.
Del Mundo, a reporter for The Manila Times, said that although Pagasa had not ruled it out, the weather disturbance is unlikely to intensify into a tropical storm in the next few days.
Pagasa said that the combined effect of the LPA with the southwest monsoon affects Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon. This also affects Visayas Peninsula, Northern Mindanao Region, Caraga Region, and BARMM.
“Flash floods or landslides are possible in these areas due to moderate, at times, heavy rains,” Del Mundo warned.
Habagat is expected to cause a partly cloudy or cloudy sky with isolated rains and thunderstorms in Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Sultan Kudarat (South Cotabato), as well as General Santos City.
