CEBU CITY, Cebu (PIA) – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) has issued an advisory on the approaching dry season in line with the weakening of the Northeast Monsoon, or Amihan, which is expected to begin mid-March.
In a memorandum released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), it was announced that PAG-ASA is now looking at the end of the Northeast Monsoon, where it will be followed by warmer weather conditions and a high heat index that most parts of the country may experience in the next few days or weeks.
The state weather bureau also added that extreme hot weather conditions will most likely start in April and will last until the end of May.
The NDRRMC has directed all its member agencies and local DRRM councils to remain vigilant in their respective areas of responsibility and constantly monitor the potential impacts of the high heat index, especially in terms of the health and safety of the public and the entire community.
In preparation for the summer season, government agencies and local government units are instructed to prepare their response mobility assets for the subsequent deployment of medical supplies and emergency personnel in the event of health emergencies arising related to the extreme heat that will be experienced in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the agency also cautioned the public against heat-related illnesses that may arise due to the high heat index, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
This includes limiting the number of hours spent outdoors to avoid too much heat exposure, drinking plenty of water, and reducing the consumption of coffee, soda, tea, and soft drinks.
The public is also advised to always bring an umbrella, hat, and wear sleeved clothing to protect themselves from the extreme heat, and to properly plan their outdoor activities. (RGC/PIA7 Cebu)
