Shear line

Weather Alert: The Shear Line is Here to Rain on Your Parade!

Get ready, Luzon and Visayas! The shear line and Amihan are gearing up to drench parts of the Philippines!

As the temperature drops and the sweater weather vibes kick in, we are reminded that the Philippines can never really escape the wet season, even in December! The shear line, that fascinating weather phenomenon where the northeast monsoon (locally called Amihan) and warm Pacific winds collide, is stepping into action, promising both cloudy skies and rain across Luzon. Expect a canvas of gray overhead and the possibility of rain disrupting your plans from now until Monday noon, according to our trusty friends at PAGASA.

In particular, residents of Southern Luzon should brace themselves for potential downpours, some of which may be described as ‘heavy to intense’, depending on which way the winds blow. If you’ve been planning a picnic or a trip to the beach, it might be worth keeping your umbrella close at hand just in case Mother Nature has other plans. The shear line might start as a whisper but soon it’ll be shouting for attention with its rainbands engulfing various regions.

Two other weather systems, the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and your beloved Amihan, are also joining the party, making it a trio of rain-dealing atmospheric forces. The weather forecast indicates that cloudy skies accompanied by continuous rain will be felt across the archipelago. So, grab some snacks, binge-watch your favorite series, and consider it a perfect excuse to stay cozy at home!

Speaking of rain, wouldn't it be interesting to know that the Philippines is one of the top countries in the world most affected by rainfall due to climate change? Meanwhile, if you step outside during heavy downpours, just think of what gives rise to those raindrops! They form when moisture in the air cools and condenses as they rise, showing us how even the rain is a part of the beautifully complex processes of nature. Stay dry, folks!