Tropical Update

Clear but hot weather prevails across much of the Philippines today with only a few isolated thunderstorms seen on the satellite. The rest of SE Asia, however, is dealing with a more widespread thunderstorms activity. Thankfully, we haven't really seen high rain reports from the region. Up in Eastern Asia, a developing low pressure system is moving south of Japan bringing rains across Okinawa, Kyushu, and eventually into Southern Honshu. Earlier today, many areas in Eastern China are reporting rains between 50 and 100mm. We expect same amounts to fall into Japan within the next 24 hours.

IR Image from NRLMRY

As for the Philippines, there really is nothing major to talk about. However, please do note that with this mostly sunny skies will be high temperatures. Yesterday, PAGASA recorded Manila's hottest temperature this year at 35.3C. With the rain-free days in the forecast, expect those same numbers to be recorded not only in the metro but in other areas as well, particularly in Tuguegarao and Southern Mindanao.

Forecast Graphic (NOT OFFICIAL!)

Rest of the forecast looks quiet. There will be some thunderstorms popping up every now and then, particularly in the afternoon hours. Some of these storms can bring 50 to 80mm of rain in a short of amount of time. In some cases, these thunderstorms can be accompanied by strong gusts of wind and even a tornado, as we have seen in Cotabato last Tuesday. Unfortunately, we really can't accurately forecast where and when these storms would form.

Next update will be on Monday, April 16.
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Issued (0830 UTC) 430pm PhT 041312