Cooler days: Baguio chills at 12.8 Celsius

MANILA, Philippines — The cold temperature in Baguio City persists, having reached 12.8 degrees Celsius yesterday morning, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

In Basco, Batanes, the state weather bureau said the temperature dipped to 15.8 degrees Celsius due to the northeast monsoon or amihan.

The northeast monsoon, which usually occurs in October, is expected to end by March, causing colder temperatures in high-altitude areas like Baguio City, PAGASA added.

On Jan. 18, 1961, the highlands experienced their lowest temperature at 6.3 degrees Celsius.

Aside from Baguio City and Batanes, other areas also recorded cold temperatures: Malaybalay, Bukidnon, 18.4 degrees Celsius; Tanay, Rizal, 18.6 degrees Celsius; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, 19.2 degrees Celsius; Abucay, Bataan, 19.8 degrees Celsius; and Science Garden in Quezon City, 20.2 degrees Celsius.

In Metro Manila, the coldest day of the year so far was also recorded yesterday at 20.2 degrees Celsius. 

The capital experienced its lowest temperature at 14.5 degrees Celsius on Jan. 11, 1914.

PAGASA weather specialist Daniel James Villamil said many areas nationwide will experience rains brought by the shear line.

 “In central and eastern portions of Visayas and Mindanao, expect scattered rains. Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon or amihan will bring cloudy weather and light rains in the eastern and southern portions of Luzon, including the western section of Visayas,” he added.

Thunderstorms are also expected in Mindanao, he noted.