Developing LPA may end summer next week

MANILA, Philippines - Summer in the country may end next week when a low-pressure area is expected to develop over the West Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said yesterday.

Rusy Abastillas, climatologist at the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), said a “deep convection” or low-pressure area will develop on May 21, which signals the start of the southwest monsoon season. Abastillas said the onset of the rainy season, associated with the southwest monsoon, is expected between the last week of May to early June. PAGASA weather division chief Robert Sawi said the El Niño phenomenon is not expected to delay the start of the rainy season.

One or two tropical cyclones are likely to enter the Philippine area of responsibility this month, the weather bureau said. Abastillas said they expect the full development of the southwest monsoon between June 11 and 15.

“Wet to very wet conditions will be likely from June 17 onward,” she said during the regular climate forum at the PAGASA office in Quezon City.