MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has officially declared the end of the Amihan season in the Philippines as of March 23, 2026, marking a significant shift in the country’s weather pattern.

With the northeast monsoon now over, the country is entering a transition period toward the hot and dry season. This change signals the gradual rise of temperatures and heat index levels in the coming days, bringing warmer and more humid conditions across many regions.

While the cooler winds of Amihan have provided relief in recent months, their departure often ushers in a different set of challenges. PAGASA warned that aside from increasing heat, the public should also expect localized thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon or evening. These are typically caused by intense daytime heating, which leads to sudden cloud formation and short but sometimes heavy rainfall.

For many Filipinos, this seasonal shift is more than just a weather update—it has real-life implications. Higher temperatures can affect health, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration. It also impacts agriculture, water supply, and energy consumption, as demand for cooling rises.

In recent years, transitions like this have become more unpredictable, with extreme heat events becoming more frequent—a trend often linked to broader climate patterns. This raises concerns about preparedness, especially in urban areas where heat can be more intense due to infrastructure and population density.

As the country moves into hotter months, both government and citizens are urged to take proactive steps—from staying hydrated to conserving energy and preparing for sudden weather changes.

With rising temperatures and shifting climate patterns, the question now is: are we truly prepared for the intensifying heat, or are we underestimating its impact? (Larawan mula sa: DOST-PAGASA / Facebook)