ILOILO City – The dry season is fast approaching, with state weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) – Iloilo confirming that Western Visayas has begun transitioning away from the cooler northeast monsoon toward warmer conditions expected to intensify by early March.
Weather forecasters said residents should brace for steadily rising temperatures in the coming weeks as the country shifts from the amihan season to the dry months.
“Ga-amat amat na kita transition sa dry season. Possible by end of February or early weeks sang March ang transitioning ta,” said PAGASA-Iloilo weather forecaster Leonor Silvestre.
The transition comes as the northeast monsoon or amihan weakens and the easterlies — warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean — gradually become more dominant, bringing warmer and more humid conditions across the region.
Despite the shift, PAGASA clarified that isolated rains may still occur before February ends due to lingering amihan effects.
Once the dry season is officially declared, PAGASA-Iloilo will begin recording and releasing heat index readings to guide the public, particularly farmers preparing for planting season.
Authorities have already issued early advisories urging farmers, laborers, and individuals working under the sun to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
“Magdala lang kita pirme sang tubig, stay hydrated lang, mag-monitor kita sang weather forecast. Kun pwede, likawan naton magpainit katama,” Silvestre said.
As of now, PAGASA-Iloilo said there are no indications that El Niño will develop in the coming months, easing concerns of a prolonged dry spell.
Still, with temperatures expected to climb soon, weather officials are calling on the public to stay alert and prepare early as Western Visayas heads into the summer season./PN
