MANILA – The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) warned Thursday that the ongoing Strong El Niño may intensify into a Very Strong El Niño and persist through the first half of 2027.

PAGASA said climate models and expert assessments indicate that the phenomenon could intensify between September and December 2026 and continue through the first half of 2027.

El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), characterized by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific and cooler-than-average waters over the Philippine Sea.

PAGASA said El Niño generally brings warmer temperatures and below-normal rainfall to most parts of the Philippines, increasing the risk of prolonged dry spells and drought.

It warned that rainfall deficits could affect agriculture, water resources, energy production, public health and the broader economy.

Despite the generally drier conditions, PAGASA said the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat and active tropical cyclones could still bring localized heavy rainfall, particularly over the western parts of the country.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. urged local governments and climate-sensitive sectors to take early, data-driven measures.

“Climate information must be utilized before a crisis strikes,” Solidum said, citing the need to adjust farming schedules and prepare communities, infrastructure and essential services.

PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel V. Servando said the agency would continue monitoring the phenomenon and coordinate with national and local government agencies to ensure timely dissemination of science-based forecasts.

“We will continue to work closely with national and local government agencies to ensure critical, science-based forecasts reach communities promptly,” Servando said.

PAGASA urged authorities and the public to implement conservation and mitigation measures as it continues to monitor developments in the climate phenomenon.