Tropical rainstorm to soak central Philippines through Easter Sunday
A tropical rainstorm will spread locally flooding downpours across the central Philippines through Easter Sunday.
After developing in the Philippine Sea on Friday afternoon (local time), Tropical Depression 02W weakened to a tropical rainstorm on Saturday night and will continue across the central Philippines through Sunday.
Despite weakening from a tropical depression, downpours will still spread across the Philippines through Sunday.
Tropical downpours will spread from east to west across the central Philippines into Sunday, dropping a general 50-100 mm (2-4 inches) of rain.
“The most likely area for flooding will be from Samar to Mindoro and far southern Luzon,” Douty said, “but any flooding will be isolated.”
Localized downpours can occur southward across Mindanao, while the most numerous downpours should bypass Manila to the south.
Even if flooding does not ensue, motorists will face reduced visibility and a heightened risk of vehicles hydroplaning when traveling at highway speeds. Air travelers could face delays.
Outdoor Easter weekend plans could be spoiled or forced indoors. This includes in Batangas, Sablayan and San Jose.
Gusty winds will also accompany the rainstorm, kicking up rough seas and creating hazards for small craft and swimmers.
The weekend will end with the system leaving the Philippines and moving into the South China Sea, where Douty expects conditions to be less conducive for re-strengthening.
Locally drenching showers and thunderstorms will still target Mindoro and Luzon islands, including Manila, early next week.
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