Latest Weather Update About Tropical Depression Igme
WEATHER UPDATE – A low pressure area off northern Luzon has strengthened into tropical depression Igme, as reported by PAGASA on Friday afternoon. Weather specialist Benison Estareja stated that Igme is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines but will instead move toward Taiwan.
On the same day, the southwest monsoon (habagat) is anticipated to bring rain to Zambales and Bataan, with occasional showers over the Ilocos region. Meanwhile, Metro Manila, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, and the rest of Luzon can expect cloudy skies with scattered rain and thunderstorms. The remaining areas of Visayas and Mindanao should see partly cloudy to cloudy conditions, along with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
The habagat, influenced by recent tropical cyclones Ferdie, Gener, and Helen, has resulted in significant casualties and damage. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), at least 24 people have died, and 14 are missing due to the severe weather. The conditions have forced approximately 10,300 families, or about 40,000 individuals, into evacuation centers.
The NDRRMC reported that the habagat and cyclones have damaged around 2,100 homes, with infrastructure losses estimated at about P22.5 million. The agricultural sector has also faced heavy losses, amounting to approximately P600 million, particularly affecting regions like Palawan, Occidental Mindoro, Antique, Western Visayas, and the Zamboanga Peninsula. DA spokesperson Asec Arnel De Mesa indicated that nearly P528 million of the losses are concentrated in the rice sector.
In response to the crisis, the Department of Agriculture is prepared to assist affected farmers through Quick Response Funds and has prepositioned seeds for rice, corn, and vegetables. This support will enable farmers to quickly resume planting once conditions improve.
“Meron tayong Quick Response Funds, at saka naka-preposition din ang binhi ng palay, mais, at saka mga gulay, once ready na silang magtanim, pwede silang magtanim for quick turnaround,” De Mesa said.