The Philippines will experience varied weather conditions over the next 24 hours, with the Northeast Monsoon affecting Luzon and Visayas, and potential thunderstorms in Mindanao, according to the latest forecast issued by PAGASA at 4:00 AM today, March 16, 2026, valid until 4:00 AM tomorrow. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Luzon: Cloudy with Light Rains Expected
Across Luzon, the Northeast Monsoon, locally known as "Amihan," is the primary weather driver. Specifically, the Bicol Region, along with Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Apayao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province, will experience cloudy skies accompanied by light rains. PAGASA advises that no significant impacts are expected from these light rains.
Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon can anticipate partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. While the chance of widespread heavy rainfall is low, residents should still carry umbrellas or light rain gear when venturing outdoors, especially during the morning and evening hours.
Visayas: Similar Conditions to Luzon
The Visayas region will experience similar weather patterns to Luzon. Expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with the possibility of isolated light rains due to the Northeast Monsoon. No major disruptions are anticipated, but it's always best to be prepared for brief periods of rainfall.
Mindanao: Possible Thunderstorms and Flash Floods
Mindanao has a higher risk of experiencing more severe weather. PAGASA forecasts partly cloudy skies, transitioning to at times cloudy skies, with rainshowers or thunderstorms. These thunderstorms are localized, but they carry the potential for flash floods or landslides, particularly in areas prone to these hazards. Residents in Mindanao should monitor local weather updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.
Breakdown by area in Mindanao:
- Zamboanga Peninsula: Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon or evening.
- Northern Mindanao: Similar conditions to Zamboanga Peninsula. Residents in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Malaybalay should be particularly vigilant.
- Davao Region: Expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms.
- SOCCSKSARGEN: Similar to Davao Region, with isolated thunderstorms possible.
- Caraga: Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains due to the Northeast Monsoon. The rest of the region should be prepared for localized thunderstorms.
Wind and Coastal Water Conditions
Wind conditions across the Philippines will generally range from moderate to strong, blowing from the northeast. This is particularly true for Northern Luzon, the eastern sections of Central and Southern Luzon, and Visayas. Coastal waters in these areas are expected to be moderate to rough, with wave heights ranging from 2.5 to 3.7 meters.
The rest of Luzon will also experience moderate to strong winds from the northeast, with moderate to rough seas (2.1 to 3.4 meters). In the eastern section of Mindanao, expect moderate to strong winds from the northeast to north, with moderate to rough seas (1.8 to 3.1 meters). The rest of Mindanao will have light to moderate winds from the northeast to north, with slight to moderate seas (0.6 to 2.5 meters).
Temperature and Humidity
Yesterday, the maximum temperature recorded at the PAGASA Weather Station in Quezon City was 29.6°C at 2:00 PM, while the minimum temperature was 17.1°C at 5:30 AM. The maximum relative humidity was 84% at 6:00 AM, and the minimum was 40% at 2:00 PM.
Safety Precautions and Preparedness
PAGASA emphasizes the importance of taking the following safety measures:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for weather updates from PAGASA and local news sources.
- Prepare for Rain: Carry umbrellas, raincoats, or other protective gear, especially if you are in Luzon or Visayas.
- Monitor for Thunderstorms: If you are in Mindanao, be aware of the potential for localized thunderstorms and flash floods.
- Avoid Low-Lying Areas: If heavy rains are forecast, avoid areas known to be prone to flooding.
- Secure Belongings: Protect outdoor belongings from potential damage caused by strong winds or heavy rain.
- Heed Local Warnings: Pay attention to any warnings or advisories issued by local government units or disaster response agencies.
PAGASA Monitoring
PAGASA continues to monitor weather conditions across the Philippines and will issue updates as necessary. Stay tuned for the latest information and advisories. Monitor official PAGASA updates at pagasa.dost.gov.ph