Up to 4 cyclones seen in Sept. 

AROUND two to four tropical cyclones will likely develop in September, with two expected to make landfall, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

In its 5 a.m. press briefing on Monday, PAGASA said that the first two tropical cyclones will likely develop in the eastern portion of the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

While both tropical cyclones are unlikely to hit the country directly, the second system could still enhance the prevailing southwest monsoon (Habagat).

Meanwhile, the third tropical cyclone is forecast to form east of PAR and will likely move northwest and is expected to make landfall over the extreme northern part of Luzon. 

The fourth system is likewise expected to head northwest, potentially hitting the southern section of the island.

PAGASA warned that heavy rainfall induced by the southwest monsoon is expected throughout September, particularly in the country’s western section, even without the direct impact of tropical cyclones.

Residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas are advised to take precautions.

PAGASA is currently monitoring a low-pressure area (LPA) enhancing the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rains across the country since last weekend.

In its 5 p.m. press briefing, the state weather bureau said the LPA was estimated at 865 kilometers east of northern Luzon, with a “low” chance of developing into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 to 48 hours.

“This will bring cloudy skies and scattered rain showers with thunderstorms over Palawan, Occidental Mindoro, Quezon, Camarines Norte,” PAGASA weather specialist Veronica Torres said during a press briefing in Filipino. 

PAGASA warns of potential flash floods and landslides especially in high-risk areas. — Edg Adrian A. Eva