PAGASA: LPA to strengthen habagat but may not make landfall

Metro Manila, Philippines - The low pressure area (LPA) monitored east of the country may develop into a tropical cyclone and strengthen southwest monsoon winds in the next few days, the state weather bureau said on Saturday, June 7.

In a 5 a.m. briefing, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the LPA last spotted 240 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes has a “medium chance” of developing into a tropical cyclone.

“Kapag ito ay naging ganap na bagyo maaaring hindi tumama or maglandfall sa anumang bahagi ng bansa pero palalakasin nito ang habagat,” Weather Specialist Grace Castañeda said.

[Translation: When it becomes a cyclone, it may not hit or make landfall in any part of the country but it will strengthen the southwest monsoon.]

Once the LPA becomes a tropical depression, it will be called “Auring.” This would be the first cyclone for 2025.

Heavy rainfall is forecast over Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar due to the stronger southwest monsoon or habagat.

PAGASA earlier said the LPA entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility at 2 a.m. on Friday.