A low pressure area (LPA) inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) was bringing rain to Mindanao and two regions in the Visayas on Sunday, October 3.

As of Sunday afternoon, the LPA was located 185 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, embedded along the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ).

The ITCZ is a belt near the equator where the trade winds of the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere meet, usually causing LPAs or thunderstorms.

The ITCZ itself was also affecting Southern Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to the LPA in these areas:

• Mindanao
• Eastern Visayas
• Central Visayas

Severe thunderstorms could trigger flash floods and landslides. (READ: FAST FACTS: Tropical cyclones, rainfall advisories)

PAGASA earlier said the LPA is projected to move toward the Caraga-Eastern Visayas area.

It may also develop into a tropical depression within 48 hours, and would be given the local name Lannie. (READ: LIST: PAGASA’s names for tropical cyclones in 2021)

The potential tropical cyclone comes as the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2022 elections continues across the Philippines. The filing of COCs is until Friday, October 8.

An average of 20 tropical cyclones form within or enter PAR each year. So far, there have been 11 in 2021. – Rappler.com