PAGASA declares onset of 'amihan' season

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 20) — The state weather bureau on Thursday announced the onset of the northeast monsoon or amihan season in the country, signaling chiller days ahead.

In a statement, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said meteorological conditions that indicate the onset of the season were recently observed.

"For the past several days, strong to gale-force northeasterly winds have prevailed over Northern Luzon due to the strengthening of the high pressure system over Siberia. Moreover, gradual cooling of the surface air temperature over the northeastern part of Luzon has been observed," PAGASA said.

"With these developments, the northeast wind flow is expected to gradually become more dominant over Northern Luzon, bringing cold and dry air. Surges of cold temperatures may also be expected in the coming months," it added.

PAGASA also said the amihan may trigger floods, flash floods, and rain-induced landslides due to the ongoing La Niña.

The weather bureau announced the end of the southwest monsoon or habagat season earlier this month.