Most parts of the country will experience severe drought from February to May 2024 due to El Niño, the Department of Science and Technology said on Tuesday.

During a press briefing at Malacañang, Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum said 77 percent of the country will suffer from the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to last until the second quarter of 2024.

Solidum said 65 provinces will experience a drought, while six areas will experience a dry spell.

"A strong El Niño is present in the tropical Pacific and this has further intensified, nearing its peak in the coming months," Solidum said.

He added that dry conditions have decreased the number of tropical cyclones, further exacerbating the drought situation.

Solidum said the El Niño is comparable in intensity to the severe event of 1997-1998, which was the worst the country has experienced. He added impact is expected to be significant, with extreme temperatures and a potential for the hottest summer in recent memory.

"The temperature forecast during Amihan times is expected to be between 9.4 degrees Celsius and 14.8 degrees Celsius," Solidum said.

"The maximum temperature in Northern Luzon by April or May could reach 41 degrees Celsius, which could feel even hotter due to the heat index," he added.

Solidum also stressed the need to intensify preparations for the El Niño, particularly in health, water, agriculture, sanitation, and peace and order. He also called for a collective effort from all sectors to mitigate the impact of the El Niño.

Phl gov't mitigating El Niño effects

On the other hand, Solidum said the Philippine government is taking steps under its National Action Plan (NAP) to mitigate the effects of the El Niño.

The plan, developed in response to PAGASA's earlier predictions of El Niño, focuses on water security, food security, energy security, health measures, and public safety.

Secretary Solidum emphasized that the NAP will be implemented by various government agencies in collaboration with local communities.

"The details of the plan will be further elaborated by the concerned departments, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response to the challenges posed by El Niño," he stated.

The DOST's proactive approach in addressing El Niño highlights its commitment to science-based disaster risk reduction and management. The National Action Plan provides a concrete framework for mitigating the potential impacts of this climatic phenomenon and ensuring the safety and well-being of Filipinos nationwide.