The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is closely monitoring a low pressure area (LPA) located approximately 240 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, which is anticipated to possibly develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.

Despite the potential for intensification, PAGASA forecasts that the LPA will not make landfall anywhere in the Philippines.

However, it is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat, leading to significant rain across various regions.

Weather conditions resulting from the LPA and the southwest monsoon will impact Central and Southern Luzon, as well as the Visayas and Mindanao through widespread rainfall within the coming days.

To address these emerging risks, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has activated a blue alert status in Eastern Visayas, preparing public agencies for potential response requirements.

NDRRMC Executive Director Ariel Nepomuceno indicated that this alert aims to ensure readiness against anticipated flooding and landslides in already vulnerable areas, particularly as recent heavy rains have saturated the soil.

Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils are advised to execute their preparedness protocols, including mobilizing response teams and preparing emergency resources.

The NDRRMC has also alerted various agencies such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police for potential search and rescue operations.

In addition to the substantial rains from the LPA, the southwest monsoon is already affecting regions such as Metro Manila, MIMAROPA, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON, with moderate to heavy rain forecasted to increase risks of floods and landslides.

PAGASA has reported medium chances of the LPA developing into a tropical depression, stressing that significant rainfall is expected regardless of its development status.

As local government units prepare for the potential impacts, residents in flood-prone areas throughout the Bicol Region, Central and Eastern Visayas, and various provinces in Southern Luzon are urged to remain vigilant.

PAGASA indicates that the continuing rains may lead to dangerous flash floods, and specific regions are under heightened warnings due to their susceptibility to severe weather conditions.

In separate weather-related events, extensive flooding has already affected communities in Mandaue City, Cebu, where over 300 families were temporarily evacuated from inundated barangays.

The flooding is attributed to heavy rainfall exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems and waste accumulation.

Emergency response teams are working to assist affected families as conditions fluctuate.

The nation faces continued challenges with adverse weather as PAGASA reports widespread rainfall is expected to prevail, prompting residents to remain prepared and informed about potential severe weather impacts over the next several days.