Weather: Potential cyclone approaches Surigao

Flash floods and landslides threaten parts of the Visayas and Mindanao as a potential cyclone — a low-pressure area — moved closer to Surigao del Sur in Mindanao before noon Monday. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said that as of 8 a.m., the LPA was estimated at 380 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. In its 10:30 a.m. advisory, PAGASA noted the LPA is embedded along the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) affecting the Visayas and Mindanao. "Both weather systems will bring scattered to widespread rains over the Central and Eastern Visayas and Northeastern Mindanao which may trigger flash floods and landslides," it warned. PAGASA did not say if the LPA would intensify into a cyclone. If it does, it would be locally codenamed "Sendong." Meanwhile, Bicol-based weather site Typhoon2000.ph cited a graphical satellite analysis indicating the LPA may cross the Visayas Tuesday or Wednesday. — RSJ, GMA News