LPA Likely to Intensify into Tropical Depression 'Maymay', Bringing Thunderstorms to Luzon

A low-pressure area (LPA) located northwest of the country is highly likely to develop into Tropical Depression Maymay, bringing thunderstorms to parts of Luzon within the next 24 hours, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). “It has a high chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. If ever, likely tomorrow,” PAGASA weather specialist Benison Jay Estareja said in Filipino during a 5:00 p.m. press briefing on Tuesday. If it develops, it will be assigned the local name Maymay, the country’s 13th tropical cyclone this year and the second for August. As of 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, the LPA was last located 180 kilometers west of Bacnotan, La Union. Mr. Estareja said the weather disturbance will move slowly eastward toward the Ilocos Region, interact with land, and eventually dissipate. In a separate 4:00 p.m. weather forecast, PAGASA said the LPA is expected to bring thunderstorms to four areas in Luzon over the next 24 hours, including the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon. The bureau warned of possible flash floods and landslides due to moderate to heavy rains induced by the LPA. Meanwhile, Typhoon Dolphin (international name) remains outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and has a low chance of entering the PAR, Mr. Estareja said. “Nonetheless, whether it will enter PAR or not, we can see that it will enhance the southwest monsoon starting Thursday, affecting large parts of Luzon and Western Visayas,” he added. In Metro Manila and nearby provinces, occasional rains are expected due to the southwest monsoon over the next 24 hours. PAGASA warned of possible flash floods and landslides due to moderate to heavy rainfall. — Edg Adrian A. Eva