MANILA — The Philippines is expected to see wetter than usual conditions in the coming months as a weak La Niña continues to develop, the state weather bureau PAGASA announced this week. The climate pattern, which began forming in September and strengthened further in November, is projected to bring above-normal rainfall from December 2025 until at least February 2026.
According to PAGASA, cooling sea surface temperatures across the central Pacific have now reached levels consistent with a weak La Niña. While the phenomenon is not expected to reach moderate or strong intensity, its effects will still be significant, particularly in areas already prone to flooding and landslides.
La Niña events typically enhance the northeast monsoon and increase the likelihood of prolonged rainfall. With this year’s episode expected to persist into early 2026, PAGASA warned that the coming months may bring more frequent heavy downpours, localized thunderstorms, and rain-triggered hazards. The agency also noted a higher chance of tropical cyclones entering or forming within the Philippine Area of Responsibility during the period.
Disaster officials are urging local governments and residents in vulnerable areas to prepare early. Communities in river basins, coastal towns, and mountainous regions — where flash floods and landslides commonly occur — are advised to monitor weather advisories closely and review emergency protocols.
While PAGASA described the current La Niña as “weak,” the agency emphasized that even a mild episode can have a pronounced impact when combined with seasonal weather systems. The public is encouraged to stay vigilant as the rainy episodes peak between December and February.
