by Charie Mae F. Abarca, MB
Brace for colder weather in the coming days because the Amihan season has officially begun!
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Thursday, Oct. 20, declared the onset of the northeast monsoon, locally called “amihan,” season in the country.
The northeast monsoon pertains to the cold winds from the northeast that bring rains over the eastern side of the country. Following the onset of this weather system, surges of cold temperatures may be experienced across the country in the coming months.
“The northeast wind flow is expected to gradually become more dominant over Northern Luzon, bringing cold and dry air,” said PAGASA in a press statement.
La Niña
Apart from cooler winds, the northeast monsoon, according to the state weather bureau, may further enhance the ongoing La Niña.
La Niña, or the cooling of sea temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, increases the likelihood of having “above normal rainfall conditions” that could lead to other hazards such as flash floods and rain-induced landslides, especially in vulnerable areas.
“All concerned government agencies and the public are advised to take precautionary measures to mitigate the potential impacts of these events,” PAGASA added.
In 2021, PAGASA declared the onset of the amihan season on Oct. 25.
