ILOILO City – Western Visayas is bracing for potentially heavy rains and rough seas as three tropical cyclones are expected to strengthen the southwest monsoon or habagat, prompting authorities to warn the public, particularly fisherfolk, to remain alert.
Weather forecaster Leonor Silvestre of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Iloilo said none of the three weather disturbances is expected to directly affect Western Visayas, but their combined influence could enhance the habagat and bring light to moderate rains that may occasionally become heavy.
The three tropical cyclones being monitored are a tropical depression formerly named “Neneng,” located north of Itbayat, Batanes; Typhoon Saudel east of extreme Northern Luzon; and another tropical depression east of Eastern Visayas.
PAGASA expected Saudel to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) yesterday when it would be given the local name “Obet.” Silvestre, however, said the typhoon has a low chance of making landfall and is expected to leave PAR this Tuesday, August 25.
The tropical depression west of extreme Northern Luzon is not expected to enter PAR and is forecast to move toward southern China.
Meanwhile, Tropical Depression Neneng was last spotted 375 kilometers northeast of Itbayat, Batanes, moving west-northwest at 35 kilometers per hour. It was forecast to head toward northern Taiwan by Thursday night or early Friday before leaving PAR.
Silvestre urged residents to bring umbrellas or hats when going outdoors this week as protection from both the heat and rain.
She particularly cautioned fishermen and those traveling by sea to remain vigilant. While no gale warning had been issued, the enhanced Habagat could make sea conditions rough.
The public was also advised to regularly monitor weather bulletins from PAGASA and trusted media outlets./PN
