El Niño’s Impact to Extend Through August, Warns DOST

Renato Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), announced at a recent press conference that the effects of the current El Niño event are expected to persist until August. The DOST has projected that dozens of provinces will face drought and dry spell conditions in the coming months, with the numbers fluctuating but remaining significant through the period.

In detail, Solidum forecasted that 48 provinces would experience drought and 24 would face a dry spell in April. These figures are expected to shift slightly in May, with 54 provinces predicted to be hit by drought and 10 by dry spells. The trend indicates a decrease in affected areas as the season progresses, with the numbers dropping to 25 provinces by June, 23 by July, and 10 by August.

The shift towards La Niña, which is anticipated to start impacting by June with a 62% probability, is also on the radar. The preparation for La Niña’s onset, known for its above-normal rainfall, is crucial to mitigate potential floods and landslides in vulnerable regions.

DOST, in response to these climatic challenges, has established the El Niño Southern Oscillation platform, in collaboration with PHIVOLCS and other agencies, focusing on critical sectors like food, water, health, public safety, and energy. This platform provides valuable information for community preparedness against the ramifications of El Niño and the impending La Niña.

As the country navigates through these climatic phenomena, the authorities emphasize the importance of readiness and informed action to lessen the adverse impacts on the affected provinces.