Potential Tropical Cyclone Development Off Mindanao in 24-48 Hours

A new Low Pressure Area off Mindanao may evolve into a tropical cyclone within 24 to 48 hours, but is not expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility. The trough may still cause rain in parts of Western Mindanao. The previous Tropical Depression Querubin has dissipated and no longer affects the country.

A new Low Pressure Area (LPA) has emerged off the coast of Mindanao and is projected to potentially develop into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 to 48 hours, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). The LPA is situated approximately 1,575 kilometers west of Mindanao. Pagasa specialist Grace Castañeda indicated that current predictions suggest the tropical cyclone is unlikely to venture into the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), with only a possible grazing of the PAR boundary west of Palawan.

Despite these projections, Castañeda cautioned that the trough associated with the LPA could produce scattered rain showers in the Zamboanga Peninsula, as well as in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. The state weather agency also noted the dissipation of the previous LPA, which was once Tropical Depression Querubin, earlier on Saturday. This LPA ceased to have any impact on the country following its weakening into a less severe weather formation.

Castañeda remarked, “At 2 a.m. today, the LPA we were monitoring inside our area of responsibility that was formerly Tropical Depression Querubin dissipated. It no longer has any effect on any part of the country.” Tropical Depression Querubin had weakened to an LPA on December 18 after briefly intensifying.

The concern regarding tropical cyclones in the Philippines stems from the region’s susceptibility to severe weather phenomena due to its geographical location. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) closely monitors weather disturbances, particularly Low Pressure Areas (LPAs), that can potentially evolve into tropical cyclones, impacting local weather conditions and the safety of residents. The recent emergence of an LPA off Mindanao indicates the ongoing seasonal patterns that can lead to added rainfall and possible flooding in vulnerable areas. Additionally, similar weather patterns have occurred with Tropical Depression Querubin, emphasizing the dynamic nature of Philippine weather systems.

In summary, a Low Pressure Area off Mindanao has the potential to transform into a tropical cyclone within 24 to 48 hours, although it is anticipated to remain outside the main area of concern for the Philippines. Nevertheless, the trough from this LPA might bring rain to certain regions, highlighting the need for continued monitoring. The dissipation of Tropical Depression Querubin further illustrates the volatility of these weather systems and their immediate impacts on the country’s climate.

Original Source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net