Finally, it’s summer

MANILA, Philippines -  The public should brace for hotter days ahead as the dry season or summer officially started yesterday, the state weather bureau said.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the northeast monsoon has ended, signifying the start of the dry season.

“The day-to-day weather will gradually become warmer and drier in the coming weeks partly due to the extended ridge of North Pacific high-pressure area and easterlies,” PAGASA administrator Vicente Malano said.

Some isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening, particularly over the eastern sections due to “localized convection” or warmer ground temperatures that cause rain clouds to form, may still occur, according to Malano.

He said Mindanao would experience scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms due to the northward migration of the inter-tropical convergence zone or easterly waves.

Malano said moderate to occasionally rough coastal waters, particularly over the eastern section of Luzon and the Visayas, would prevail due to moderate to strong easterly wind.

PAGASA climatologists said there is nothing unusual with the April onset of the dry season.

Analiza Solis, officer-in-charge of PAGASA’s climate monitoring and prediction division, said this year’s weather appears to be unusual because the El Niño phenomenon caused a prolonged dry season during the past two years.

Solis said the weather this year reverted to normal, which was last felt in 2014.

“Last year’s dry season was longer, because of the effects of a strong El Niño,” she said.

Last year, PAGASA officially announced the start of the dry season on March 18.

Summer safety tips

With the onset of summer, the Philippine National Police (PNP) issued safety tips for the public to enjoy a hassle-free vacation.

The PNP Police Community Relations Group (PCRG) has been distributing leaflets detailing things to remember when going on vacation.

PCRG director Chief Supt. Gilbert Cruz said the Mga dapat tandaan sa SUMVAC contains safety tips for travelers, riding public and beachgoers.

Cruz said the distribution of leaflets was part of the public service of the PNP.

He reminded travelers to secure their houses properly and unplug electrical appliances before leaving for a vacation.

Authorities said residents should never leave signs that indicate the house is unattended and the family is on a long vacation.

They should ask a neighbor to look after the house while the family is away.

Motorists heading for the provinces are reminded to check their vehicles’ “blowbagets” (battery, light, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, engine, tire and self) conditions before embarking on a trip.

Drivers must make sure they have their license and certificate of registration, official receipt and other vehicle documents.

Motorists must ensure that the doors and windows of their vehicle are locked while on the road.

“Drivers must avoid using their phones while driving. Appropriate headlights and signal lights should be used, especially at night. Don’t drive with poor vision. Always bring a flashlight or emergency light,” the PNP said.

Those who will be commuting are advised not to wear jewelry or carry huge amounts of money and expensive gadgets.

They are advised to come early to the bus terminals, airports and piers.

The riding public is advised to immediately report the presence of suspicious packages or persons, especially in crowded areas, and be wary of robbers and pickpockets.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa ordered policemen nationwide to implement strict security measures until the end of the Holy Week and summer vacation.

Traditionally, police officers inspect bus terminals in Metro Manila to ensure the safety and security of holidaymakers heading for the province.

Dela Rosa ordered police assistance desks or centers set up and officers deployed at convergence points, particularly in bus terminals, airports, seaports, train stations and recreational areas as well as highways and main thoroughfares.