This May, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declared the start of the rainy season, brought on by the strengthening of the southwest monsoon winds.
After 5 months, the end of the Habagat season was declared on October 7.
“We no longer see winds coming from the southwest, which means we won’t experience monsoon rains anymore with regard to the southwest monsoon,” said Larry Esperanza, Chief Meteorological Officer – DOST PAGASA Baguio Synoptic Station.
After this, PAGASA is expected to declare the start of the Amihan season any day this October.
“Right now, we are seeing a northeast wind flow, which means it is shifting toward the northeast, and PAGASA will soon declare that we are in the Amihan season,” Esperanza added.
Thus, colder weather can be expected.
In Baguio City, temperatures are expected to range between 17 to 19 degrees Celsius.
However, localized thunderstorms may still bring rains in the afternoon or evening.
As the Amihan season approaches, Rosalie’s nephew is now bundled up, as this is their way of avoiding flu-like illnesses.
This is the first time he’s worn a jacket again because he’s feeling cold. He wakes up early for school. We really focus on vitamins and drinking water, soft drinks are not allowed,” Rosalie Cargo, Resident.
From January to October 5, 2024, more than 12,000 cases of flu-like illnesses have been recorded in Cordillera.
This is almost double the 5,351 recorded cases during the same period last year.
“We still see an increase, and clustering is still present,” said Engr. Benelyne Balag-ey, Nurse III, DOH-CHD CAR.
In addition to this, pertussis or whooping cough cases in the region are also being closely monitored.
The agency has already recorded 153 cases of pertussis in Cordillera, with three fatalities.
This is far from the 12 cases recorded during the same period last year.
“Our age range is from 24 days old to 60 years old, with females being affected more, comprising 78 or 51% of the cases,” Balag-ey mentioned.
To avoid illnesses this cold season, it is advised to drink water regularly, wear thick clothing, wash hands frequently, eat nutritious food, and consult a doctor immediately if any symptoms arise
**JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR
