Parts of the country are expected to enter dry conditions by late November 2026, but the impact may be less severe due to the northeast monsoon or “amihan,” according to the state weather bureau.
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Administrator Nathaniel Servando said the cooler northeast monsoon will help moderate the effects of below-normal rainfall typically seen during the period.
“That’s just the initial list, but more areas are likely to be added by December. Drought condition is also possible,” Servando said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.
PAGASA’s initial forecast identified 47 areas nationwide that may experience dry conditions, defined as two consecutive months of below-normal rainfall or a 20 to 60 percent reduction in rainfall.
Servando said the presence of amihan during November and December will make the dry period less intense, although still noticeable in some regions.
“It will be drier, but not so humid because of the amihan,” he said.
He noted that while only Camarines Sur has so far been projected to experience a dry spell—defined as three consecutive months of below-normal rainfall—this remains a preliminary assessment and may change as updated forecasts are released.
Servando urged the public to prepare for warmer and more humid conditions in the first quarter of 2027, particularly from February to April.
He also reminded households to practice proper water conservation even during non-critical periods to help manage supply risks.
For the remainder of 2026, PAGASA said the country should also remain alert for possible flooding between July and September due to the southwest monsoon or “habagat,” which is expected to bring heavier rainfall during that period.
The agency encouraged the public to regularly check official updates through PAGASA’s website, social media platforms, and its newly launched PANAHON mobile application for real-time weather advisories.
Photo courtesy of PNA
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