PAGASA: HABAGAT TEMPORARILY WEAKENS AS POTENTIAL SUPER TYPHOON 'INDAY' APPROACHES

The southwest monsoon, locally known as Habagat, is expected to temporarily weaken over most parts of the country in the coming days as Tropical Storm Henry (international name: Maysak) moves toward southern China, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

PAGASA said the country will experience a monsoon break through Tuesday, July 7, bringing generally warm and humid weather across many areas. However, isolated afternoon or evening rain showers and thunderstorms remain possible, particularly over Northern and Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Panay, Negros, Samar, and parts of Mindanao. Localized heavy rains may still trigger flash floods or landslides in vulnerable areas.

Metro Manila is expected to experience generally fair and warm weather this weekend, although thunderstorms may develop by Monday and Tuesday due to localized convection.

Meanwhile, PAGASA is closely monitoring Typhoon Bavi, which is forecast to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Tuesday or Wednesday and will be given the local name Inday. Current forecasts indicate the cyclone could intensify into a super typhoon before entering PAR.

While Inday is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines based on current forecasts, the cyclone could significantly enhance the southwest monsoon beginning Wednesday, bringing widespread rains over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas. The heaviest rainfall is expected between July 9 and 11, particularly over Northern Mimaropa, CALABARZON, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila, increasing the risk of flooding and rain-induced landslides.

PAGASA reminded the public to continue monitoring official weather bulletins, stressing that the forecast track and intensity of the tropical cyclone may still change over the coming days.