Photo credit: DOST_PAGASA

Tropical Cyclone Josie has weakened into a tropical depression and is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by this afternoon or evening, according to the latest weather bulletin.

Despite its weakening, weather authorities warned that the southwest monsoon, or habagat, will continue to bring strong winds to several parts of the country over the next few days.

For today, strong to gale-force gusts are expected across the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Cavite, Batangas, and Occidental Mindoro. Similar conditions are forecast to persist on Tuesday and Thursday in parts of Northern Luzon, including Ilocos Region, Abra, Apayao, Batanes, and the Babuyan Islands.

At sea, rough conditions remain a concern, especially along the western and northern seaboards of the Babuyan Islands, Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union, where waves may reach up to three meters. Small fishing boats and other light vessels are strongly advised to stay ashore, while operators of motorbancas are urged to exercise caution in areas with moderate to rough seas.

PAGASA said Josie is no longer expected to directly affect the country's weather during the forecast period. However, heavy rains and strong winds may still occur outside the storm's forecast track due to the enhanced southwest monsoon.

Forecasters expect Josie to turn northeastward within the next 12 hours before exiting PAR. It is also likely to weaken further into a low pressure area as it moves into an unfavorable environment.