Tropical Depression Habagat to Deliver Cloudy Skies and Rainfall Across the Philippines

Weather Update: Tropical Depression & Monsoon Bring rain,Flood Risks to the Philippines

August 28,2025

The Philippine Atmospheric,Geophysical and Astronomical services Management (PAGASA) is currently tracking a Tropical Depression,formerly known as ‘Jacinto,’ situated 650 kilometers west of Iba,Zambales. The weather system is carrying maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 70 km/h, and is moving westward at 15 km/h.

Impact of the Trough and Southwest Monsoon

Several regions are already experiencing the effects of the Trough of the Tropical Depression and the Southwest Monsoon, commonly known as ‘Habagat’. These weather systems are expected to persist, bringing widespread rainfall and potential hazards.

Areas Under Watch

The Ilocos Region,Cordillera Administrative Region,Central Luzon,Quirino,and Nueva Vizcaya are under alert for cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms. Residents in these areas should prepare for possible flash floods and landslides, especially in elevated or landslide-prone zones.

Similarly, the Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Dinagat Islands, Occidental Mindoro, and Palawan are experiencing cloudy conditions with scattered showers and thunderstorms, also carrying a risk of flash floods and landslides. Vigilance is crucial during periods of heavy rainfall.

The remainder of Cagayan valley will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, though the threat of flash floods and landslides remains during severe thunderstorms. Metro Manila, alongside other areas across the country, will experience partly cloudy to cloudy conditions alongside isolated rain showers and thunderstorms due to the Southwest Monsoon.

Wind and Coastal Conditions

Northern Luzon is experiencing moderate wind speeds moving in a southeast to east direction, alongside moderate coastal conditions. Visayas and the rest of Luzon will face moderate winds from the southwest to south, with moderate waves as well. The wind forecast for Mindanao indicates light to moderate winds coming from the south to southwest, with slight to moderate coastal waters.

Region	Weather Condition	Hazards
Ilocos Region, Cordillera, Central Luzon	Cloudy with Scattered Rains/Thunderstorms	Flash Floods, Landslides
Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Palawan	Cloudy with Scattered Rains/Thunderstorms	Flash Floods, Landslides
Cagayan Valley	Partly Cloudy to Cloudy	Flash floods (during severe storms)
Metro Manila	Partly Cloudy to Cloudy	Flash Floods (during severe storms)

According to PAGASA, sunrise was at 5:44 a.m.and sunset is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. today. Residents are urged to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and heed warnings issued by local authorities.

Did You Know? The Southwest Monsoon, or ‘Habagat,’ is a seasonal wind pattern in the Philippines that brings significant rainfall, particularly during the months of June to November.

Pro Tip: before venturing outdoors,check the real-time rainfall intensity map from PAGASA (https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/) to assess potential risks in your area.

Preparing for Monsoon Season in the Philippines

the Philippines, being an archipelago, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of monsoons and tropical cyclones. Preparing for these weather events is critical for ensuring safety and minimizing damage. Here are some evergreen tips:

• Stay Informed: Regularly monitor weather updates from PAGASA and local news sources.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit containing essential supplies such as food, water, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, and a radio.
• Secure Your Home: Reinforce roofs, clear drainage systems, and secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
• evacuation Plan: Know your local evacuation routes and designated evacuation centers.
• Community Involvement: Participate in community disaster preparedness initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Habagat and Tropical Depressions

What are your preparations for the rainy season? Share your tips in the comments below!

What specific actions should residents in areas under a Red Rainfall Warning take?

Habagat Intensifies: What to expect

Tropical Depression Habagat (the southwest monsoon) is currently enhancing rainfall across much of the Philippines. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Management (PAGASA) is closely monitoring the situation, and residents are advised to prepare for potentially notable whether disruptions. this article provides a detailed breakdown of the expected impacts, affected areas, and crucial safety measures. Expect increased rainfall and cloudy skies throughout the archipelago.

Areas Under Rainfall Warnings

As of today, August 28, 2025, the following regions are under varying levels of rainfall warnings:

Red Warning: Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, and parts of Pangasinan. Expect heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Immediate evacuation might potentially be necessary.

Orange Warning: metro Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna, Quezon, and Rizal. Intense rain showers are likely, with a high risk of flash floods and landslides.

Yellow Warning: Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, and the rest of CALABARZON and Region IV-B (MIMAROPA). Be vigilant for moderate to heavy rainfall and possible flooding.

These warnings are dynamic and subject to change. Stay updated with the latest advisories from PAGASA. Regularly check PAGASA weather updates for the most current data.

Impacts of Habagat: Beyond the Rain

The enhanced Habagat isn’t just about rainfall. Several cascading effects are anticipated:

Flooding: Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable to urban flooding and river flooding. Monitor water levels in nearby waterways.

Landslides: Sloped areas, especially those previously disturbed by deforestation or construction, are at high risk of landslides.

Rough Seas: Coastal waters will be rough to very rough, making sea travel hazardous. The Philippine Coast Guard has issued warnings against sailing. Maritime safety is paramount.

Disruptions to Transportation: Expect delays or cancellations of flights and ferry services. Travel advisories are being issued.

Agricultural Impacts: Prolonged rainfall can damage crops and lead to agricultural losses.

Understanding the Monsoon and its Effects

The Habagat is a seasonal wind system that brings moist air from the Indian Ocean and south China Sea to the Philippines. Its intensification is often linked to the presence of other weather systems,like tropical depressions or typhoons. This current situation is being exacerbated by a tropical depression located east of the Philippines. The southwest monsoon is a key driver of the Philippines’ climate.

Safety Precautions: Preparing for Habagat

Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly monitor weather updates from PAGASA (https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/) and reputable news sources.
2. Secure Your Home: Reinforce roofs, clear drainage systems, and secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include non-perishable food, water, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, a radio, and significant documents.
4. Evacuate if Necessary: if you live in a flood-prone or landslide-prone area, heed evacuation orders from local authorities. Emergency evacuation procedures should be known.
5. Avoid Floodwaters: Do not wade or drive through floodwaters. Even shallow water can be dangerous.
6. Be Aware of Electrical Hazards: Avoid contact with electrical wires and appliances during heavy rain.

Real-World Example: Lessons from Past Habagat Events

In 2013,Metro Manila experienced devastating flooding due to enhanced Habagat,combined with Typhoon Maring.The event highlighted the importance of improved drainage systems, early warning systems, and community preparedness. The lessons learned from that event are informing current disaster risk reduction efforts. Disaster preparedness is crucial for mitigating the impact of Habagat.

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