PAGASA and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) have issued warnings about the potentially hazardous temperatures expected in 2024, attributed to the El Niño phenomenon.
With temperatures projected to soar as high as 36.5°C in Metro Manila and a heat index reaching 40°C, health risks for both humans and livestock are heightened.
The abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean has spurred concerns about below-normal rainfall and heightened temperatures. PAGASA’s forecast suggests that the full impact of El Niño will be felt from March to May.
In response, health authorities advise the public to maintain hydration by consuming eight to 12 glasses of water daily. Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture urges farmers to monitor livestock closely, providing adequate water and avoiding exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours.
Despite the warming trend, both the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and the Department of Energy assure the public of uninterrupted water and power services, with contingency plans in place.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 16, 2024
