THE Philippines may experience La Niña-like conditions in the coming months, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Ana Liza Solis, chief of PAGASA’s Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section, reported that the country has been under a La Niña alert since July 2024. However, the necessary activity threshold to declare an official La Niña season has not yet been reached.
“We are currently near the threshold or borderline because we see the possible impacts of La Niña,” Solis said in a radio interview on Saturday. “As of now, there is a 72% chance of La Niña conditions this December, January, and February.”
Weather Impacts and Precautions
Solis added that La Niña-like conditions are expected to persist at least through January, February, and March. However, she noted that while there is still a possibility of reaching the La Niña threshold, it may not result in a full-blown La Niña event, which typically lasts six months or more.
“If you notice, we have many weather systems affecting the country, including the Shear Line, which is associated with strong easterlies during La Niña,” she explained.
PAGASA cautioned the public to remain vigilant against potential impacts, including heavy rains, flooding, and landslides.
“The public should not be complacent, as various weather systems may still bring rain and cause flooding or landslides in the coming days,” Solis warned.
PAGASA continues to monitor weather patterns and urges citizens to stay updated through official advisories.