Tropical cyclone Mekkhala to enter PAR on June 20 or 21
Tropical Storm Mekkhala is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) between Saturday evening, June 20, and Sunday morning, June 21, carrying maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour. Once inside the region, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) will designate the storm with the local name Francisco, marking it as the sixth tropical cyclone of 2026.
Storm trajectory and intensity
As of 10 a.m. on Saturday, the storm was positioned 1,590 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, moving west at 20 km/h. According to PAGASA, Mekkhala is projected to intensify into a severe tropical storm later on Saturday and potentially reach typhoon strength by Sunday. While meteorologists suggest a landfall scenario remains unlikely at this time, the system is expected to track near land by Tuesday, June 23, and Wednesday, June 24.
The name Mekkhala, which identifies this tropical storm internationally, was contributed by Thailand and translates to “angel of thunder.”
Potential impact on local weather
While the storm remains outside the PAR, its outer extensions are already influencing regional weather patterns. PAGASA reports that the trough of the storm is causing scattered rain and thunderstorms in Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte. In other regions, including Metro Manila and Central Luzon, the prevailing easterlies are expected to trigger isolated rain showers.
Samantha Carter notes that while the storm’s center may avoid a direct landfall, the primary risk lies in the peripheral effects. The potential for the system to enhance the southwest monsoon, or habagat, could lead to significant rainfall in the western portions of the country, complicating the transition into the rainy season that officially began on June 4.
Monitoring and safety preparations
PAGASA has not ruled out the possibility of raising Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 in the northern and eastern sections of Northern Luzon if the storm’s wind field expands. Residents in these areas should prepare for moderate to rough coastal waters beginning Tuesday. Officials are also monitoring how the storm may interact with the southwest monsoon, which has been active since May 30.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the local name of Tropical Storm Mekkhala?
Once it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility, PAGASA will name the storm Francisco.
Is the storm expected to make landfall?
PAGASA states that a landfall scenario is currently considered less likely, though the storm will be near land on June 23 and 24.
How will the storm affect the monsoon season?
The weather bureau is monitoring the system for its potential to enhance the southwest monsoon, which may result in heavy rain across the western part of the country.
How are you and your community preparing for potential heavy rains this coming week?