The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially announced the start of summer in the Philippines as the northeast monsoon came to an end. PAGASA administrator Nathaniel Servando mentioned that the termination of the northeast monsoon marked the beginning of warmer and drier months, also known as summer in the Philippines. He highlighted that the El Niño phenomenon is expected to continue, leading to higher temperatures and drier conditions in April and May.
Servando advised the public and relevant national agencies to make necessary preparations to mitigate the effects of the hot and humid weather. He emphasized simple measures like staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent heat-related illnesses. PAGASA climatology and agrometeorology division officer-in-charge Ana Liza Solis shared that the highest temperature recorded this year was 37.1 degrees Celsius in Zamboanga City on Feb. 15, while the lowest temperature was 7.9 degrees Celsius in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Solis also mentioned that warmer temperatures, particularly in Luzon and Cagayan Valley, are expected in the coming months. She warned that the maximum extreme temperature during the dry season could reach 40.7 degrees Celsius or higher, leading to hot and humid weather conditions. Solis highlighted that the ongoing El Niño might result in less rainfall and prolonged dry spells, potentially causing droughts in some areas.
She noted that several areas have already declared a state of calamity due to insufficient rainfall. As of March 21, Solis advised the public to anticipate a higher heat index in western Luzon and western Mindanao, indicating increased humidity and discomfort. She urged vulnerable communities to be prepared for the discomfort caused by the high heat index in the upcoming days and months.
