Warm, dry season officially begins – PAGASA

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially declared on Tuesday, March 21 the onset of warm and dry season in the country, as the cold weather associated with the northeast monsoon or “amihan” season has ended.

In a statement, PAGASA Administrator Vicente B. Malano cited recent analyses that indicated the retreat of the high-pressure

area over Siberia, which resulted in the weakening of northeasterly winds and an increase in air temperature in most parts of the country.

Moreover, Malano pointed out that the strengthening of the North Pacific High has led to the gradual shift in the wind pattern from northeasterly to easterly.

“These signify the end of the northeast monsoon (amihan) and the beginning of the warm and dry season, which is expected to last until

May,” Malano said.

The PAGASA chief advised the public to expect warmer temperatures in the coming months.

“The public is advised to take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress and optimize the daily use of water for personal and domestic consumption,” he said.

Malano added that rainfall around the country will mostly be affected by easterlies and localized thunderstorms in the next few months.