Tropical Storm Mekkhala is moving toward the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and is expected to enter the region between Saturday evening, June 20, and Sunday morning, June 21, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The storm carries maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour and could intensify into a typhoon by Sunday.
The international name “Mekkhala” was contributed by Thailand and translates to “angel of thunder.” Upon entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility, the storm will be assigned the local name “Francisco.”
Projected Path and Intensity
As of 10 a.m. Saturday, the storm was located 1,590 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, tracking west at 20 kilometers per hour. PAGASA reports that Mekkhala is likely to intensify into a severe tropical storm on Saturday before potentially reaching typhoon status by Sunday. While meteorologists currently consider a direct landfall unlikely, the system may track near land on Tuesday, June 23, and Wednesday, June 24.
Anticipated Weather Impacts
The trough of the tropical storm is already affecting parts of the country, with scattered rain and thunderstorms reported in Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte. PAGASA has not ruled out the issuance of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for the northern and eastern sections of Northern Luzon, as those areas could experience strong winds from the system. Coastal waters in those regions are expected to become moderate to rough by Tuesday.
The significance of this system lies in its potential to influence the southwest monsoon, or habagat. Given that the rainy season officially began on June 4, any enhancement of these monsoon winds by Mekkhala could lead to heavy rainfall across the western portion of the country, compounding the seasonal weather patterns already in effect.
Monsoon Interaction
PAGASA is monitoring how the tropical cyclone may enhance the southwest monsoon in the coming days. The monsoon, which officially began its onset on May 30, is expected to bring heavy rain to the western parts of the Philippines if it is strengthened by the approaching storm. Outside of areas affected by the storm’s trough, the rest of the country is experiencing generally fair weather, though easterlies may still trigger isolated rain showers in Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, and Central Luzon.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the storm enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility?
PAGASA expects the tropical cyclone to enter PAR between the evening of Saturday, June 20, and the morning of Sunday, June 21.
Will the storm make landfall in the Philippines?
At this time, PAGASA states that a landfall scenario is considered less likely, though the storm could pass near land on June 23 and 24.
What is the storm’s current strength?
As of Saturday morning, it is classified as a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour and gustiness reaching 105 kilometers per hour.
How are you preparing for the potential heavy rains associated with the start of this year’s monsoon season?
