..MANILA, Philippines - The state weather bureau warned seven provinces in Mindanao for possible flash floods and landslides due to a low pressure area (LPA) east of the Visayas on Saturday.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the LPA was spotted some 910 kilometers (kms) east of the Visayas before noon on Saturday, and is expected to bring moderate to heavy rains and thunderstorms in Mindanao.
The areas that will particularly experience heavy rains due to the LPA are the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Del Norte.
PAGASA advised the public that the widespread rains in these areas will likely trigger landslides and flash floods.
According to PAGASA forecaster Chris Perez, the LPA has a minimal chance of intensifying into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours because of "sheared" cloud organization.
If the LPA develops into a tropical cyclone, it will be given the local name of "Karen."
Meanwhile, Perez said, the whole country will experience mostly cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms, particularly Metro Manila and the western section of Northern and Central Luzon that are affected by the southwest monsoon or the "hanging habagat."
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