PAGASA declares start of warm, dry season amid El Niño

The warm and dry season for 2024 has begun in the Philippines, marking the end of the northeast monsoon period as declared by PAGASA on Friday, March 22.

PAGASA announced that temperatures will rise during this season, lasting until May with daily heat index figures issued to monitor conditions; according to Ana Liza Solis, officer-in-charge at Pagasa's climatology and agrometeorology division, this summer could be one of the warmest on record due to ongoing El Niño effects.

The weather bureau warned of an increased risk of health hazards such as heat stress and stroke, advising people to stay hydrated, wear thin clothing, and carry umbrellas; Pagasa also noted that isolated thunderstorms are likely in the afternoon or evening despite more warm and dry days ahead.

Despite El Niño weakening, its effects are expected to persist through May, leading to drier conditions in at least 37 areas and affecting various sectors including agriculture, energy, and public safety; PAGASA urged continued precautionary measures to minimize heat stress and prevent health risks.

The Department of Agriculture reported that damage costs to agriculture in eight regions have reached P1.75 billion as of March 14, with at least 29,437 farmers affected by El Niño.

PAGASA cited the retreat of the high pressure area over Siberia and a shift from northeasterly winds to easterlies as key indicators of the season change; it also warned that reduced rainfall or drier-than-usual conditions would likely persist due to ongoing El Niño.