Is Heavy Rain Expected in Southern Luzon and Northern Samar Due to LPA?

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned the public about an impending low pressure area (LPA) set to bring moderate to heavy rainfall across several provinces from Saturday to Monday. This weather system is particularly significant for regions like Quezon and parts of the Bicol region, where rainfall could lead to floods and landslides.

Last updated: 13 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

The LPA is located 75 km east northeast of Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
Moderate to heavy rain (50-100 mm) is expected in at least eight provinces.
Floods and landslides are likely in affected areas.
The LPA has a low chance of developing into a tropical depression.
Historical context: The Philippines has seen 12 tropical cyclones in 2023, including two in September.

Current Situation of the Low Pressure Area

As of 8 am on Saturday, the low pressure area (LPA) was positioned about 75 kilometres from Borongan City, Eastern Samar. PAGASA has been monitoring this system closely, noting its potential impact on local weather patterns. The LPA is expected to bring significant rainfall, particularly from Saturday noon through Sunday noon.

Expected Rainfall and Affected Provinces

The rainfall advisory issued by PAGASA indicates that the following provinces should prepare for moderate to heavy rain ranging from 50 to 100 millimetres:

Quezon
Marinduque
Camarines Norte
Camarines Sur
Catanduanes
Albay
Sorsogon
Northern Samar

From Sunday noon to Monday noon, Quezon will again be highlighted as a region expecting further rainfall from the LPA.

Broader Impact Across the Region

In addition to the provinces mentioned, the LPA is anticipated to cause scattered rain and thunderstorms in various areas. These include:

Calabarzon
Rest of Bicol
Metro Manila
Occidental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro
Romblon
Rest of the Visayas
Northern Mindanao
Caraga
Zamboanga del Norte

While the rest of Luzon and Mindanao are not directly affected by the LPA, they may still experience isolated rain showers due to easterly winds and localized thunderstorms.

Flood and Landslide Warnings

PAGASA has cautioned residents in the affected provinces to be vigilant about potential floods and landslides. The combination of heavy rainfall and the geography of these areas poses a significant risk, particularly in mountainous regions or areas with poor drainage systems.

Understanding the Low Pressure Area

An LPA is an area where the atmospheric pressure is lower than the surrounding regions, often resulting in cloudy skies and precipitation. While the current LPA is not expected to develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, it remains crucial for residents to stay informed about any changes in its status. The next potential tropical cyclone in the region will be named Mirasol.

Tropical Cyclone Activity in the Philippines

The Philippines is no stranger to tropical cyclones, having experienced 12 such events in 2023 alone. Notably, two of these — Tropical Depression Kiko and Tropical Depression Lannie — occurred in September. Both systems entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) but dissipated quickly, highlighting the unpredictable nature of tropical weather systems.

What Happens Next?

As the LPA continues to move across the Visayas and Southern Luzon, residents should remain updated through local news and PAGASA advisories. Monitoring for any potential upgrades to tropical depression status is essential, as rapid changes can occur in these weather systems.

Conclusion: Preparedness is Key

In summary, the LPA is set to impact significant areas with moderate to heavy rainfall. Preparedness is crucial for residents in the affected provinces. It is advisable to have emergency kits ready and to stay informed through official channels. Will this LPA develop further, or will it dissipate as expected? The coming days will reveal the answer.

#PhilippinesWeather #LPA #TropicalCyclones

FAQs

What is a low pressure area?

A low pressure area (LPA) is a region where the atmospheric pressure is lower than its surroundings, often leading to cloud formation and precipitation.

How much rain is expected from the LPA?

Provinces affected by the LPA could see moderate to heavy rain ranging from 50 to 100 millimetres over the weekend.

Is there a risk of flooding from the LPA?

Yes, there is a significant risk of flooding and landslides in the provinces experiencing heavy rainfall due to the LPA.

What should residents do to prepare for heavy rain?

Residents should prepare emergency kits, stay informed through PAGASA advisories, and avoid areas prone to flooding.

What is the likelihood of the LPA developing into a tropical depression?

Currently, the LPA has a low chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, but residents should remain vigilant.