By Ma. Cristina Arayata | Philippine News Agency
About two to four tropical cyclones are expected to enter the Philippines before the year end and at least 45 provinces are expected to experience drought by March 2024.
“Most of these tropical cyclones are landfalling or crossing. This means it will either be destructive in terms of wind strength, or it could cause heavy rains,” Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) assistant weather services chief Analiza Solis said in a public briefing Thursday.
“Some areas could possibly experience dry spell (due to El Niño).”
Meanwhile, Solis said PAGASA could declare the onset of the northeast monsoon or “amihan” season in the next two days.
Cold temperature, especially in the eastern part of the country, will be experienced during the “amihan” season, she said.
Reduced rainfall is also expected.
Solis noted that the effects of El Niño would be gradually felt.
“There are areas that could experience dry spell from November to early next year. By end of January, around 26 provinces, mostly in the Visayas and Mindanao, might experience dry spell,” she said.
“A significant reduction in rainfall and drought is expected in around 45 provinces by end-March.”
Solis said those areas could experience up to 60 percent rainfall reduction for five months.
