Text by Abigael S. Omana, DOST-STII
Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PAGASA) recently held a press conference on the status of the ongoing El Niño and La Niña watch, the official termination of the Amihan season, and the launching of the “Updated climate projection in the Philippines” last 22 March 2024.
The press conference was also held in line with the agency’s celebration of the 159th National and 74th World Meteorological Day being commemorated annually, every 23rd of March.
“Today, we officially declare the start of the Philippines summer based on analysis of the latest forecast,” said DOST-PAGASA Administrator, Dr. Nathaniel Servando.
“We expect the number of warm and dryer days will increase in the coming weeks and in the coming months. And with the effects of El Niño, which is expected to continue, we expect above temperatures and even drier conditions during the month of April and May in particular,” he added.
Servando also advised the public and all concerned government agencies to continue their precautionary measures to minimize the potential health impacts of hot weather such as staying hydrated, avoiding the prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and optimizing the daily use of water for personal consumption.
Furthermore, DOST-PAGASA Climatology and Agrometeorology Division Chief Ana Liza Solis told that this warm and dry seasons between April and June could be one of the warmest, which could reach up to 40.7 Degree Celsius, particularly in Northern Luzon, including the Cagayan Valley area. Solis also said that many places have pronounced ‘state-of-calamity’ due to less rainfall experience due to the ongoing effects of El Niño.
Furthermore, DOST-PAGASA Weather Division Chief Juanito Galang added that the warm season could last until the month of May and gradually shift to southwesterly. (PR)
