Most parts of the Philippines continue to feel the effects of the northeast monsoon, or “amihan,” as it brings light rains across the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported on Friday.
The weather bureau said that Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Caraga, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Apayao, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Aurora, Quezon, and Oriental Mindoro are experiencing light rainfall.
Metro Manila and other areas are seeing isolated showers, which may briefly interrupt daily activities but are not expected to cause serious disruptions.
PAGASA warned that the eastern sections of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will face strong to gale-force winds and rough to very rough seas.
In other coastal areas, moderate to strong winds are generating moderate to rough waters.
Fisherfolk, sailors, and residents near the coast were advised to exercise caution and monitor weather updates closely.
The agency confirmed that both the low-pressure area formerly known as tropical cyclone Ada, and another low-pressure area outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, remain unlikely to develop into cyclones within the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, Baguio City recorded the coldest temperature in the country at 10.6 degrees Celsius on Friday morning.
Other areas with low temperatures included Basco, Batanes at 16.2°C; Tanay, Rizal at 16.3°C; Malaybalay, Bukidnon at 17.6°C; San Ildefonso, Bulacan at 18.2°C; Abucay, Bataan at 18.3°C; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte at 18.5°C; Casiguran, Aurora at 18.8°C; and Sinait, Ilocos Sur and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan at 19.0°C.
Residents in these areas experienced cooler mornings and evenings, prompting them to wear warmer clothing and adjust outdoor plans accordingly.
PAGASA explained that the cooler temperatures are caused by the continued influence of the amihan.
The bureau said that an intensified high-pressure system over Siberia and China is channeling cold air toward the Philippines, while thick snow cover in those regions further strengthens the chill.
According to PAGASA, intermittent cool spells will likely continue until February, keeping much of the country in crisp and sometimes biting weather conditions.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates, particularly in areas prone to rough seas and stronger winds, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Photo by Pj Haight
Filipinos Urged To Brace For Cooler Months As Amihan Peaks
Filipinos are bracing for cooler mornings and evenings as the northeast monsoon, locally called “Amihan,” sweeps across the country.
