MANILA, Philippines — The easterlies continue to dominate weather patterns across the Philippines, bringing cloudy skies and scattered rains to several regions on Saturday, the state weather bureau PAGASA reported. According to PAGASA’s daily weather forecast, the easterlies will cause cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms over Caraga , Eastern Samar , Southern Leyte , Davao del Norte , Davao de Oro , and Davao Oriental . These conditions are expected to persist through the weekend, with potential hazards including flash floods and landslides in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Meanwhile, Batanes will experience similar conditions due to a frontal system , resulting in cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms. The rest of the country, including Metro Manila , will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms caused by the easterlies. Light to moderate winds with slight to moderate coastal waters will be felt across the archipelago.
Easterlies are warm winds originating from the eastern Pacific Ocean, blowing westward toward the Philippines. They typically bring warm and humid air, which can trigger the formation of clouds and rain showers , especially in the eastern sections of the country. Unlike typhoons or monsoon winds, easterlies are a normal weather feature during certain times of the year, but they can still cause disruptions.
For Filipinos, understanding the easterlies is crucial because they often lead to isolated thunderstorms that can quickly escalate into severe weather events. PAGASA regularly issues advisories to help communities prepare, especially those in vulnerable areas prone to flooding and landslides.
According to PAGASA, the easterlies will affect the following regions on Saturday, February 22, 2026:
- Caraga — Cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms
- Eastern Samar — Cloudy with scattered rains
- Southern Leyte — Cloudy with scattered rains
- Davao del Norte — Cloudy with scattered rains
- Davao de Oro — Cloudy with scattered rains
- Davao Oriental — Cloudy with scattered rains
- Batanes — Cloudy with scattered rains due to frontal system
Metro Manila, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Visayas, and the rest of Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms. The rest of Luzon will also see isolated rains due to localized thunderstorms , with potential for flash floods and landslides during severe thunderstorms.
In a statement to GMA News , PAGASA weather specialists emphasized that while the easterlies are not as extreme as typhoons, they can still cause significant localized flooding. "Residents in affected areas should remain vigilant, especially those near rivers, streams, and mountainous terrain," the bureau advised.
PAGASA also noted that the easterlies are expected to persist until Wednesday, February 26, based on earlier forecasts from February 19. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration continues to monitor the situation and will issue updates as needed.
For millions of Filipinos, these weather conditions mean disruptions to daily routines. Farmers in agricultural regions like Davao and Eastern Visayas may face challenges with crop management due to excessive rain. Commuters in Metro Manila should prepare for possible traffic snarls caused by sudden downpours. Fisherfolk are advised to exercise caution at sea, as coastal waters may become rough in some areas.
Schools and local government units are encouraged to stay updated on PAGASA advisories and implement contingency plans. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has pre-positioned relief goods in high-risk areas, according to recent reports.
If you are in an affected area, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Monitor PAGASA’s official social media pages and weather updates
- Avoid crossing flooded streets or rivers, especially during thunderstorms
- Secure loose objects around your home that could be blown by strong winds
- Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, flashlight, and first aid supplies
- Stay indoors during severe thunderstorms and avoid using electrical devices
As the easterlies continue to influence Philippine weather, it is essential for everyone to remain informed and prepared. While these conditions are typical for this time of year, climate change may be intensifying their effects, leading to more unpredictable weather patterns. PAGASA remains on alert, and Filipinos are urged to cooperate with local authorities.
For more updates on Philippine weather and other news, visitPinoyPulse Weather and stay tuned to our daily forecasts.
Easterlies are warm winds that blow from the east, carrying moisture from the Pacific Ocean. They often cause cloudy skies and rain showers in the Philippines, particularly in eastern regions.
According to PAGASA, the easterlies are expected to persist until at least mid-week, with potential extensions depending on weather patterns.
Caraga, Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Batanes are directly affected. Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao may also experience isolated rains.
While not extreme, localized flooding can occur in low-lying areas during severe thunderstorms. Stay updated on PAGASA advisories and avoid crossing flooded areas.
