Filipinos are urged to remain on alert as the year draws to a close, with the state weather bureau forecasting that up to two tropical cyclones may still enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this month.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) made the announcement Monday, confirming that the holiday season could bring significant weather disturbances.
“This December, we expect one to two tropical cyclones to form or enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility,” PAGASA weather specialist Obet Badrina said in an early morning forecast.
PAGASA is currently monitoring a cloud cluster situated in the eastern section of the PAR. While not yet a storm, experts warn that this system is on track to possibly develop into a low-pressure area and subsequently cross into the country’s jurisdiction within the coming days.
Should this developing weather disturbance intensify into a full-fledged tropical cyclone, it would be the 23rd storm to affect the country this year and will be assigned the local name “Wilma.” The public is advised to monitor official weather advisories closely as the potential storm develops.