As of August 31, 2026, Tropical Depression Pilandok continues to maintain its strength while contributing to significant monsoon rains in parts of northern Luzon. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reports that Pilandok is currently situated 1,145 kilometers east of extreme Northern Luzon.
Storms and Monsoon Effects
Pilandok is projected to evolve into a tropical storm by September 1, moving north-northwestward at 10 kilometers per hour. Alongside Pilandok, two other tropical depressions outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) are enhancing the southwest monsoon, leading to heavy rainfall in the Ilocos Region, Abra, and Benguet.
The enhanced southwest monsoon is causing strong winds and rough seas across many areas, with warnings for flash floods and landslides.
PAGASA Weather Specialist Charmagne Varilla
The southwest monsoon, or 'habagat', is also affecting other parts of Luzon and the western section of the Visayas. PAGASA has cautioned residents in these areas to prepare for potential flash floods and landslides.
The agency is closely monitoring the tropical depression Saudel, located 1,075 km west of extreme Northern Luzon, which may reenter PAR. Saudel has winds of 45 km/h and could intensify.
As Pilandok remains far from land, it is not expected to make landfall, but its influence on the monsoon will persist, affecting weather patterns across the region.
Residents are advised to stay updated with weather alerts as the situation evolves. PAGASA will continue to provide updates on Pilandok and the ongoing monsoon conditions.