Mimaropa, Kalayaan Islands seen facing dry conditions by November

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-Pagasa) has warned that five provinces in Mimaropa and the Kalayaan Island Group are among 47 areas nationwide likely to experience dry conditions by November 2026.

In its seasonal climate outlook posted on social media, Pagasa identified Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and the Kalayaan Island Group in Palawan as areas expected to record below-normal rainfall toward the end of the year.

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The agency defines “dry conditions” as a 21 to 60 percent reduction in rainfall from the long-term average for two consecutive months.

While less severe than drought, prolonged below-normal rainfall may still affect water supply, agricultural production, and other climate-dependent sectors if precautionary measures are not implemented early.

Pagasa also noted that Camarines Sur faces a more serious outlook, as it is projected to experience a dry spell—characterized by a rainfall deficit exceeding 60 percent over two months.

However, the weather bureau clarified that no area in the country is currently forecast to reach “drought” level, the most severe classification involving prolonged and extreme rainfall deficiency.

Pagasa urged local government units, agricultural stakeholders, water resource managers, and other concerned sectors to closely monitor updates and implement early response measures to mitigate potential impacts on food production and water supply.

“These regular seasonal climate outlooks form part of DOST-Pagasa’s program to equip communities with advance information, helping strengthen disaster preparedness and build resilience against shifting weather patterns,” the agency said. INQ