MANILA (Mabuhay) – Expect cooler days ahead as Amihan, the northeast monsoon, has officially started, state weather agency PAGASA said Thursday.
PAGASA said a high-pressure system over China has shifted the direction of the northeasterly wind over to Luzon, bringing cold and dry air to the northern part of the Philippines.
“Colder early morning temperature in the coming days and months are likely to be felt over Luzon, with chances of light rains especially over the Northern and Eastern section,” it said.
It added that weather conditions over the rest of the country will be generally fair apart from isolated rain showers or thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening.
Meanwhile, state-run Panahon TV posted a graphic saying goodbye to Habagat, or the southwest monsoon, and welcoming the colder days from Amihan.
According to PAGASA, the minimum temperature over extreme Northern Luzon has gone down, while strong to gale-force northeasterly winds were observed over the seaboard of Northern Luzon.
“These meteorological conditions normally signify the start of the Northeast Monsoon season,” it said.
Cool winds from the Northeast Monsoon are associated with the Christmas season in the Philippines.
The Philippines is known for having the world’s longest Christmas season, with preparations starting as early as September.
Filipinos are also known to count down the 100 days leading to Christmas starting the second week of September. (MNS)