FridayOL

The Philippines is experiencing continued rainfall and strong winds despite Severe Tropical Storm Crising (international name: Wipha) moving away from the country. The southwest monsoon, locally known as Habagat, is now the primary weather system affecting a large portion of the archipelago, bringing with it significant rainfall and potentially hazardous conditions.

Crising's Departure, Habagat's Arrival

Earlier this week, Severe Tropical Storm Crising brought intense rain and powerful winds to several regions. Thankfully, the storm has since weakened and is now moving away from Philippine waters. However, its departure has been swiftly followed by the strengthening of the Habagat. This seasonal wind pattern brings moisture-laden air from the West Philippine Sea, resulting in widespread rainfall and increased wave heights.

Areas Affected and Expected Conditions

The Habagat is currently impacting Luzon and Western Visayas the most. Expect periods of moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly in the following areas:

• Metro Manila
• Pampanga
• Bulacan
• Bataan
• Cavite
• Laguna
• Batangas
• Palawan
• Antique
• Aklan

Residents in these areas are advised to be vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and landslides. Coastal areas should also be aware of rough sea conditions and high waves.

Flood Alerts and Safety Precautions

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued flood alerts for several rivers and waterways. It's crucial to monitor PAGASA's updates regularly for the latest advisories and warnings. Here are some safety precautions to take:

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather updates from PAGASA and local news sources.
• Avoid Flood-Prone Areas: Do not venture into areas known to flood.
• Secure Your Surroundings: Ensure that loose objects are secured to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.
• Be Prepared for Power Outages: Have emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, and food readily available.
• Follow Evacuation Orders: If instructed to evacuate, do so promptly and follow the guidance of local authorities.

Long-Term Outlook

While Crising's direct impact has subsided, the Habagat season is expected to persist for several more weeks. We can anticipate continued periods of rainfall and unsettled weather conditions across the country. Therefore, it's essential to remain prepared and vigilant throughout this season.

The government and relevant agencies are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can all mitigate the risks associated with the Habagat season and weather the storm safely.