Here's Why It's So Cold in Philippines Right Now

Don’t you just love this cuddle weather in the middle of March?

While most of us are getting cozy under fuzzy blankets and skipping the morning shower, the sudden chill is actually a bit of a shock to the system. We are technically approaching the summer season, so experiencing this freezing breeze feels like a glitch in the matrix. I am definitely not complaining because I love the excuse to wear a hoodie, but let’s be real. This is not the usual heat we expect this time of year. Here is a grounded look at what is actually causing the cold in the Philippines right now.

The science behind the sudden Philippine chill

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You might be wondering if the seasons have swapped places, but the reality is much more literal. The reason for this shivering weather is a powerful surge of the northeast monsoon, or amihan. This seasonal wind carries cold and dry air from Siberia and China directly toward our islands. While we feel the amihan every year, this particular surge is exceptionally strong for March.

Early Sunday morning, the PAGASA Science Garden in Quezon City recorded a chilling 17.1°C. This is significantly lower than the previous record for this season, which was 19.2°C back in January. Even at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay, the temperature dipped to 19.9°C. It is the first time that specific area has dropped below 20°C all season, proving that the cold is hitting almost every corner of the metro.

Also read: 10 Coolest Places in the Philippines to Escape the Summer Heat

No travel needed for that Baguio weather vibe

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For many Filipinos, "Baguio weather" usually requires a long drive or a six hour bus trip up the mountains. Right now, the mountain breeze has essentially come to our doorsteps in the lowlands. It is the kind of weather where your coffee actually stays hot for more than five minutes, and you do not need to blast the aircon just to get some sleep.

While Baguio City itself hit a biting 9.4°C on Sunday, several other areas felt similar levels of cold.

• Benguet. La Trinidad recorded 10.5°C.

• Bukidnon. Malaybalay City dropped to 15.2°C.

• Bulacan. San Ildefonso saw 16.0°C.

• Rizal. Tanay recorded 16.8°C.

• Bohol. Even down in Panglao, the mercury hit 18.7°C.

How long will this sweater weather last

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We all want to know how long we can keep the winter aesthetic going before the inevitable heatwave returns. It is a bit of a race against time because the Philippine summer is notoriously unforgiving once it starts. According to Pagasa weather specialist Aldczar D. Aurelio, this cold weather is expected to persist for the next two to three days.

The amihan is currently affecting a large portion of the country, though it is slowly beginning to weaken. By the middle of the week, the "Easterlies" or the warm winds from the Pacific are expected to return. This means we are likely in the final stretch of the cool season before the heat of summer officially kicks in during the second half of March.

Also read: 12 New Hobbies to Try During Summer

Staying safe during the amihan surge

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While we are busy enjoying the sweater weather vibe, it is important to remember that these strong winds come with a few practical warnings. It is not all cozy blankets and hot cocoa. For those near the coast, the situation is actually quite rough. Strong winds are expected in Northern, Central, and Southern Luzon, and the sea is currently not very friendly to small boats.

A gale warning is currently in effect, as waves as high as 4.5 metres are possible in the eastern seaboards of Bicol, Samar, and the Dinagat Islands. If you are staying on land, just enjoy the rare break from the heat. Grab a hot cup of coffee, wear your favourite sweater, and make the most of this Baguio vibe while it lasts.

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