By: Maria Ghianella Tuquero
Publication: Angelique Inlong

To every student, parent, and citizen of Metro Manila buzzing in the anticipation of holidays, we might want to reconsider new gift items to wrap and give our loved ones: an umbrella, a blanket, and perhaps a jacket. We are facing a crucial moment where gifts must not be the only one we’re excited to foresee—but the weather too.

As the year 2024 paces and reaches its final weeks, Metro Manila must expect rainy and cooler days as La Niña  continues to persist. La Niña is the cooler-than-usual temperature in the Equatorial Pacific, and has a 74% chance to persist throughout this season, which may lead to intensified precipitation and wet conditions in the region. According to a specialized forecast released by The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the regional climate outlook for the National Capital Region projects the northeast monsoon or the amihan may accentuate the effects of La Niña. It is predicted that precipitation will be 211.9 mm, which is above-normal of conventional rainfall levels. Consequently, the above normal-rainfall may bring localized flooding and interruptions to holiday plans.

Weather disturbances such as low-pressure area (LPA), and localized thunderstorms are also expected to contribute to unpredictable rainfall, which PAGASA advises Metro Manila residents to be prepared for. Additionally, several key weather stations such as the northeast monsoon/amihan, localized thunderstorm, low-pressure areas, and tropical cyclones may impact the region. In order to prepare for weather occurrences during these last weeks, PAGASA advises Metro Manila residents to stay informed through official weather updates and advisories, prepare for possible flooding, especially in low-lying areas, and adjust holiday travel plans to accommodate potential rainy conditions.

The weather agency prompts Metro Manila residents to embrace the cool season while remaining conscious during instances of heavy rainfall. Bracing for the forecasted conditions, preparation also serves as our most valuable gift. While the cooler temperatures offer respite from the whirlwind weather conditions experienced for this year, preparedness remains a vital key to manage and prevent disruptions caused by the rainy weather.