2011 ForecasT Scattered rains start at least 20 typhoons

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu will experience scattered rain showers for the next few days as the Northeast Monsoon continue to bring rains and strong winds to the Visayas and Mindanao.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) said no tropical depression has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility, so far, but because the bad weather is expected to remain in the next few days, PAGASA reminded the public to be vigilant, especially those living in upland and coastal areas.

Mountainous areas are prone to landslides while coastal areas are prone to flashfloods due to big waves and exposure to strong winds.

PAGASA said cracks and movements in the soil and overflowing of rivers and creeks should be reported immediately to authorities.

Scattered rains started to pour on January 1. That day, PAGASA 7 has measured 5.4 mm of rain in Lapu-Lapu City alone. As of 2pm yesterday, the volume of rain has reached 9.4 mm in Lapu-Lapu.

The agency assured that the volume of rain is still at a normal level, but warned that such may still cause disasters if rain continues for days.

Northeast monsoon comes within November until February, season considered as a major period of rainfall activity. Aside from rain, it also brings cold winds, which have the tendency to gain strength that makes it advisable for small boats not to sail in the ocean.

Meanwhile, PAGASA expects at least 20 typhoons to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year. Eleven typhoons were recorded in 2010. Typhoon “Katring,” which made a landfall last October was the last tropical depression recorded last year. There were 21 typhoons that entered the country in 2009 with typhoon “Ondoy” causing the most devastation.

PAGASA earlier forecasted two typhoons to hit the country before the end of 2010, but the two did not form into a tropical depression.

PAGASA advised the public to bring umbrellas and jackets all the time to avoid weather-related diseases such as colds, fever and flu, among others. — (FREEMAN)