NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
PH Braces For Severe Drought As El Nino Strengthens
Photo courtesy from PTV
In a press briefing on Tuesday, December 12, Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. warned that a "strong" El Niño is expected to impact the Philippines, with at least 65 provinces, constituting 77% of the total, forecasted to experience drought by the end of May 2024. Solidum highlighted the severity of the situation, comparing it to the notorious 1997-1998 El Niño episode, considered the worst in the world.
The effects of El Niño are already being felt, with a reduction in rainfall of up to 80% in some areas, leading to dry conditions and spells. Solidum emphasized that the dry spell would predominantly affect North Luzon and Extreme Northern Luzon, while dry conditions would prevail in parts of Mindanao.
A dry spell, defined as three consecutive months of below-normal rainfall, is anticipated in around 7% of the country's provinces, while the remaining 77% face potential drought conditions, marked by three consecutive months of significantly reduced rainfall.
Solidum warned that moderate to severe drought conditions are likely to persist from February to May 2024. The El Niño is approaching its peak and is expected to persist until the second quarter of 2024.
In response to the looming crisis, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed various government agencies to implement a coordinated Updated National Action Plan on El Niño. The plan aims to address water security, food security, energy security, and public health, among other critical sectors. Agencies involved include the Departments of National Defense, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, Social Welfare and Development, Energy, Health, Information and Technology, Interior and Local Government, Budget and Management, Trade and Industry, and the National Economic and Development Authority.
The urgency of preparedness has heightened, and Solidum emphasized the need for swift progress and the involvement of all stakeholders.
The effects of El Niño are already being felt, with a reduction in rainfall of up to 80% in some areas, leading to dry conditions and spells. Solidum emphasized that the dry spell would predominantly affect North Luzon and Extreme Northern Luzon, while dry conditions would prevail in parts of Mindanao.
A dry spell, defined as three consecutive months of below-normal rainfall, is anticipated in around 7% of the country's provinces, while the remaining 77% face potential drought conditions, marked by three consecutive months of significantly reduced rainfall.
Solidum warned that moderate to severe drought conditions are likely to persist from February to May 2024. The El Niño is approaching its peak and is expected to persist until the second quarter of 2024.
In response to the looming crisis, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed various government agencies to implement a coordinated Updated National Action Plan on El Niño. The plan aims to address water security, food security, energy security, and public health, among other critical sectors. Agencies involved include the Departments of National Defense, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, Social Welfare and Development, Energy, Health, Information and Technology, Interior and Local Government, Budget and Management, Trade and Industry, and the National Economic and Development Authority.
The urgency of preparedness has heightened, and Solidum emphasized the need for swift progress and the involvement of all stakeholders.
Dec 12, 2023
