Tropical Depression ‘Dante’ Forms East of Luzon, Enhances Southwest Monsoon

Agham Road  |  22 July 2025

Based on the latest advisory from DOST-PAGASA, 5:00 PM, 22 July 2025

A low-pressure area east of Luzon has developed into Tropical Depression Dante, marking the latest weather disturbance to affect the Philippines this typhoon season. According to the 5:00 PM bulletin from PAGASA, Dante was located 1,115 kilometers east northeast of Central Luzon or 1,130 kilometers east of Northern Luzon, with maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h, gusts of up to 55 km/h, and a central pressure of 1000 hPa.

While no tropical cyclone wind signals are currently in effect, Dante is enhancing the Southwest Monsoon, bringing gusty conditions and increased rainfall across large portions of the country. The public is advised to monitor localized weather alerts and prepare for possible impacts, especially in coastal and upland areas.

Monsoon-Driven Gusts and Rains Expected

As of today, gusty winds ranging from strong to gale-force levels are being experienced in Zambales, Bataan, Metro Manila, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Visayas, and Dinagat Islands. By Wednesday, July 23, the affected areas will expand to include the Ilocos Region, Bulacan, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, and Camiguin.

Rainfall is also expected to intensify due to the combined influence of Dante, a nearby low-pressure area east of Batanes, and Tropical Cyclone Wipha currently over Vietnam.

Sea Travel Warnings Issued

Mariners are advised to take precaution. Rough sea conditions (up to 3.0 meters) are forecast for the seaboards of Batanes, Kalayaan Islands, Zambales, Occidental Mindoro, and the Calamian Islands. Moderate waves are expected elsewhere, including Cavite, Batangas, Palawan, and eastern seaboards of Luzon and the Visayas. Small seacraft operators are urged to avoid venturing out, especially if vessels are ill-equipped.

Storm Path and Forecast

Dante is moving north northwest at 20 km/h and may reach tropical storm intensity by Wednesday. It is expected to remain over the Philippine Sea, eventually curving northwest toward the Ryukyu Islands and East China Sea, possibly exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Thursday or Friday.

Preparedness and Monitoring Urged

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and local governments are advised to activate preparedness protocols. Residents in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas should follow the guidance of local officials and monitor PAGASA’s next bulletin, scheduled for 11:00 PM today.

Photo courtesy of DOST-PAGASA Facebook account