Rains herald start of summer

MANILA, Philippines — Summer is officially here.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) yesterday officially declared the start of the dry or summer season, noting the change in wind pattern from the cool northeasterlies to the warm and moist easterlies.

Heavy rains due to localized thunderstorms hit several areas in Metro Manila yesterday afternoon, shortly after PAGASA announced the official start of the dry season.

PAGASA said recent observations showed a gradual increase in daily temperature in most parts of the country.  

It said the prevailing wind has shifted from northeasterly to easterly, signifying the termination of the northeast monsoon or the cold or dry air from China and Siberia.

PAGASA also noted the weakening of Siberian high-pressure area and the establishment of the North Western Pacific high-pressure area during the week. The high-pressure area is generally associated with good weather.

“With this development, (the) expected day-to-day weather will become warmer and drier in most parts of the country due to the dominance of the ridge of high pressure area and the easterlies,” it said.

However, the weather bureau said some isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms may also be expected, mostly in the afternoon or evening.

“The general public is advised to take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress and to take note of the need to optimize the daily use of water for personal and domestic consumption,” it said.