DESPITE the need to practice frequent handwashing to avoid Covid-19, the state weather bureau advised the public to maximize its daily consumption of water as the dry season in the country officially began last Friday, March 20, 2020.
Al Quiblat, Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Association (Pagasa) Mactan chief, said the easterlies already replaced the northeast monsoon.
During this season, there is a low chance of rainfall, particularly in the month of April.
Quiblat said the average rainfall for April last year was only at 60 millimeters.
"Kon naa man gani, mga passing rains ra due to localized thunderstorm (if there be rain, it will only be passing rains due to localized thunderstorm)," he said.
The expected range of temperature for the following days is at 25 to 32 degree Celsius while the expected heat index, or the temperature felt by the human body, is at 37 degrees Celsius.
Quiblat said the heat index may reach 40 degrees Celsius by May, which is considered to be the hottest month of the year.
The public is advised to drink enough water, avoid prolonged exposure to sun between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to avoid heat stroke, and to wear light colored shirts.
The weather chief added that the dry season normally lasts until the last week of May to the second half of June. (WBS)