LPA Likely to Enter PAR and Could Become Ramil
A low pressure area (LPA) that has been monitored by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) shows a significant chance of entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). Forecasters say it could develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. If it strengthens and enters PAR, the system would be named Ramil, potentially marking the 18th cyclone to affect the Philippines in 2025.
Pagasa weather specialist Chenel Dominguez notes that the system’s trajectory, once inside PAR, could bring heavy rainfall especially to Northern Luzon over the weekend. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to stay tuned to official advisories as the situation evolves.
What This Means for Northern Luzon and Surrounding Areas
As the LPA tracks toward PAR, meteorologists emphasize that heavy rains may sweep across Northern Luzon if it intensifies into a tropical depression. Local governments and disaster response teams are preparing for possible weather disruptions, including flash floods and possible landslides in vulnerable communities. While the forecast can shift with changing atmospheric conditions, the emerging pattern indicates heightened rainfall potential in the coming days.
Current Conditions Across the Country
The Pagasa 5 a.m. advisory highlights ongoing weather patterns across the archipelago. Easterly winds are bringing humid, warm conditions to Metro Manila, CALABARZON, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Isabela, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Capiz, Aklan, Cebu, and Bohol. These easterly winds contribute to a mix of partly cloudy skies, with isolated rain showers and thunderstorms in many areas.
Meanwhile, a northeasterly wind flow is expected to affect Batanes, Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte, bringing partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The rest of Luzon and most of Visayas may experience partly cloudy to overcast skies with scattered rains as the easterlies influence weather patterns nationwide. In Mindanao, Pagasa reports cloudy skies with isolated downpours or thunderstorms within a 24-hour window due to localized convection.
<h2 Preparedness and What to Do
Residents should monitor official Pagasa advisories, especially if the LPA intensifies and enters PAR. Here are practical steps for staying safe:
- Prepare an emergency kit with non-perishable foods, water, medications, and essential documents.
<liCheck your local flood and storm drainage status and clear drains around the home to reduce flooding risk.
<liSecure outdoor items, reinforce doors/windows if strong winds are forecast, and designate a safe shelter room indoors.
<liStay informed through PAGASA updates and local government advisories for any evacuation orders or weather alerts.
<liIf you are near the coast or in flood-prone zones, avoid traversing through floodwaters and seek higher ground when advised.
<h2 Looking Ahead
Forecast models will continue to refine the projected path and intensity as the system approaches PAR. The potential naming as Ramil would be a notable development for 2025’s cyclone season in the Philippines, underscoring the importance of preparedness and timely information sharing between weather agencies and communities.
Conclusion
The LPA’s expected entry into PAR and the possible transition into a tropical depression—and later cyclonic status as Ramil—could bring significant rainfall to Northern Luzon and adjacent areas. While uncertainty remains, staying informed and prepared is essential as weather conditions evolve through the next 24 to 48 hours.