DESPITE the need to practice frequent hand washing to avoid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the state weather bureau has advised the public to use water wisely, especially since the dry season in the country officially began on Friday, March 20, 2020.
Al Quiblat, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) Mactan chief, said the easterlies already replaced the northeast monsoon.
When this happens, there is a low chance of rainfall, particularly in the month of April, he said, adding that the average rainfall in April last year was only 60 millimeters.
"Kung naa man gani, mga passing rains ra (If it does rain, it's just passing) due to a localized thunderstorm," he said.
The expected range of temperature in the following days is between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius. The expected heat index, or what the temperature feels like to the human body, is 37 degrees Celsius.
Quiblat, however, said the heat index may reach 40 degrees Celsius by May, which is considered the hottest month of the year.
The public is advised to drink enough water, to wear light-colored shirts and to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. as heat stroke is possible during this time.
The dry season, Quiblat said, normally lasts until the last week of May to the second half of June. (WBS)