Expect 11 to 14 storms during rainy season – PAGASA

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 4) — State weather forecasters are expecting 11 to 14 tropical cyclones to enter the country's weather monitoring area this rainy season.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said some of the cyclones may make landfall in Luzon and Visayas, while others may enhance the southwest moonsoon or "habagat."

“Sa ngayon po inaasahan natin na mula 11-14 ang bagyong posibleng ma-monitor natin simula po ngayong buwan ng June hanggang November," PAGASA assistant weather services chief Christopher Perez said on Sunday.

[Translation: We expect to monitor 11-14 storms from June to November.]

PAGASA said it has found a cloud cluster in the country’s boundary, particularly east of Mindanao. It warned that while habagat is not currently strong, the public may expect normal thunderstorms in metro manila during afternoon to evening.

Perez explained that under normal climate conditions, such as when there are no El Niño or La Niña alerts, the country records the highest number of tropical cyclones from June to September. He added that around three to four storms enter the Philippine area of responsibility from July to August.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) earlier said it is prepared for the entry of typhoons in the country. It also noted that the agency is doubling its efforts for the preparation of food and non-food items for affected families.

"We will continue to enhance our preparations by making sure we have enough stockpile of food and non-food items in our strategic warehouses throughout the country. At the same time, we will continue to enhance the capacity of our response unit down to the local government unit," NDRRMC spokesperson Assistant Secretary Raffy Alejandro said.

Amid the fear of floods, some residents by the river in Floodway, Pasig are preparing for the possible danger.

"Lahat ng mga gamit dapat naka prepare, tapos mga pagkain na ready-to-eat na kailangang bilhin, said Jeric Tuazon.

Liezel Julio, who has been residing in the area for 20 years, said they already have a system to help each other especially those living in the low-lying areas.

They also hope for immediate response and support from the government during strong rains and flooding in their area.