'Summer' is officially here, according to Pagasa
The heat is officially on.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) announced today, March 16, the beginning of the dry or summer season in the country.
In a statement, Pagasa Administrator Vicente Malano said that the end of the cool northeast monsoon or "amihan" signals the start of the warmer season.
"The recent analyses indicate retreat of the High Pressure Area (HPA) over Siberia, thereby weakening of the associated Northeasterly winds and decreasing sea level pressure in the country," Malano wrote.
"Moreover, the wind pattern has generally shifted from Northeasterlies to Easterlies over most parts of the country as a result of the advancing HPA over the Northwestern Pacific," he continued. "These signify the termination of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) and the start of the dry season and warmer conditions."
Malano added that rainfall is forecasted to be "influenced mostly by easterlies (wind blowing from the east) and localized thunderstorms."
Malano also reminded the public to "take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress and optimize the daily use of water for personal and domestic consumption."
To help you stay cool in the summer heat, the bureau recommends the following:
- Stay indoors if there is no need to go out. Limit outdoor activities at noon and afternoon.
- Drink plenty of fluid and, as much as possible, opt only for water. It is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies.
- Avoid drinking liquor or alcoholic drinks because it dehydrates the body.
- Keep away from coffee, tea, and soda. They induce the production of urine, which can lead to dehydration.
- Use or wear sun protectors, such as sunglasses, hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen.
- Wear loose and light-colored garments, especially white because the color reflects the frequencies of sunlight instead of absorbing them.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Doing so will help you maintain your energy level throughout the day.