We’ve got some interesting developments to cover, including a newly formed tropical depression, the ongoing Southwest Monsoon, and the start of the Northeast Monsoon. Let’s break it all down.
Tropical Depression Formed Near Luzon
A low-pressure area just off northeastern Luzon has strengthened and is now officially classified as a tropical depression. According to PAGASA, it’s a weak system with low-level circulation. It isn’t expected to become a typhoon as it slowly drifts northward. However, what we’re seeing—and what will continue—is the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), which has already brought significant rainfall to parts of the Philippines.
Monsoons and Cold Surge
We’re starting to see signs of the Northeast Monsoon as well, especially further north. Check out these images from Northeastern China where snowfall has already begun, indicating the start of the colder season. This cold surge will push down from Siberia, eventually influencing weather patterns across the region.
Meanwhile, the remnants of Pulasan are pulling away from the Philippines, moving towards northern Japan, where it will bring rainy and windy conditions, especially to Honshu and Hokkaido. Although Pulasan is weakening (65 km/h winds), it’s expected to go extra-tropical as it rides along the incoming cold front.
Weather Patterns and Storm Outlook
What’s particularly interesting about this situation is the weather pattern setup. You’ve got the tropical depression near Luzon, Pulasan moving north, and a cold front stretching from Okinawa down towards Hong Kong. This collision of cold and warm air could even spark unusual weather events like hail or tornadoes—not typical for the Western Pacific but possible in this setup.
This same cold surge will also start to influence weather in the Philippines. As the tropical depression lifts off to the north, winds will gradually shift from the southwest to the south. This means that areas like Region 1 along the west coast of the Philippines may start to dry out. Meanwhile, Taiwan will bear the brunt of heavy rainfall as monsoonal flows shift their focus there.
Improved Conditions for the Philippines
While the tropical depression is named Igme, it’s actually going to help improve weather in the Philippines. Over the next few days, Manila and much of Luzon will experience a break from the heavy rains, with relatively drier conditions expected. Palawan, which has been dealing with significant rainfall, will also start to see improvements.
- Manila: Mostly cloudy skies with the chance of a few showers on Tuesday, but overall, we should see some sunshine breaking through. Temperatures will remain in the low 30s.
- Cebu: Cloudy skies with a chance of sunshine early next week. Temperatures will be in the low 30s with mid-20s for lows.
- Baguio: Scattered showers will persist, but it’ll remain cool with highs around 21°C, warming slightly into next week.