THE Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) has intensified over Northern Mindanao, prompting severe weather alerts in Cagayan de Oro City and nearby provinces. Authorities warn of scattered thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible flash floods in low-lying and coastal barangays.

According to the latest weather forecast from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Cagayan de Oro is under heightened risk of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms linked to the ITCZ.

The advisory highlights potential localized flooding and landslides, especially in areas near the Cagayan River and upland barangays prone to soil erosion.

Daytime temperatures remain at 30–32°C, but humidity and rainfall are expected to increase throughout the week. Pagasa has also cautioned residents to prepare for sudden downpours and strong gusts of wind that may disrupt transport and daily activities.

Barangays along the Cagayan River basin — including Balulang, Kauswagan, and Consolacion — are advised to monitor water levels closely.

“For Iponan and Cagayan River, contingency plans (are) based on our Hydromet Protocol,” City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (CDRRMD) Chief Nick Jabagat said.

ON ALERT. A jeepney is seen through a rain-splattered window in Cagayan de Oro City. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (CDRRMD) is on continuous monitoring as the persistent ITCZ threatens heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and strong winds across the city. Photo by Cong B. Corrales

A Hydrometeorological Protocol is the rulebook for a region’s weather and water monitoring and forecasting services to ensure they are high-quality, reliable, and contribute to disaster risk reduction and sustainable development across sectors like agriculture, transport, and energy.

He added that his department has been giving weather updates to all of the city’s Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs).

“Continuous monitoring (kita). Especially sa atoang mga landslide-prone areas since sige ulan sa hinterland barangays,” Jabagat said.

Jabagat said the ITCZ is expected to last within three to five days.

“Our worst case scenario will be on our contingency plan on flooding,” he added.

Northern Mindanao has faced successive weather disturbances this month, with Typhoon Tino earlier causing widespread flooding in Visayas and parts of Mindanao. The ITCZ’s persistence underscores the region’s vulnerability to climate-driven rainfall patterns that strain disaster preparedness systems.