Amihan upon Philippines, colder temperatures seen in coming months

The Northeast Monsoon or Amihan--the weather system marked by cold temperatures and that signaled the Christmas holidays drawing near--has set in over the country, the weather bureau PAGASA said on Friday.

In a statement, PAGASA administrator Vicente Malano said strong to gale-force northeasterly winds had prevailed over Northern Luzon due to the strengthening of the high pressure system over Siberia and enhanced by passing tropical cyclones.

"Moreover, gradual cooling of the surface air temperature over the northeastern part of Luzon has been observed. These meteorological conditions indicate the onset of Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) season in the country," Malano said.

Malano said the northeast windflow was expected to gradually become more dominant over Northern Luzon, bringing cold and dry air.

"Surges of cold temperatures may also be expected in the coming months," Malano said.

Malano warned that with  the on-going La Nina, Amihan may be enhanced and trigger floods, flash floods, and rain-induced landslides over susceptible areas.

"Therefore, all concerned government agencies and the public are advised to take precautionary measures to mitigate the potential impacts of these events," Malano said. -NB, GMA News