Manila, Philippines – The low-pressure area (LPA) over the northern Philippine Sea has now developed into a tropical depression Kiko, as per the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
In their 4 a.m. weather bulletin, PAGASA said that the LPA, which was then located 1,190 kilometers east northeast of extreme northern Luzon, had high chances of becoming a typhoon.
The agency later confirmed at 8 a.m. that the LPA had become a tropical depression.
Meanwhile, although the southwest monsoon or Habagat is far from the land, it is still bringing heavy rains to the country particularly: Ilocos Region, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Apayao, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro.
PAGASA warned that the southwest monsoon may cause flash floods or landslides in the mentioned areas.
Meanwhile, occasional rains and thunderstorms are expected in Metro Manila, the rest of Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, and Western Visayas.
In contrast, localized thunderstorms are anticipated in the remaining parts of the country.—Chandra Salayog, Contributor