FIERIER SUMMER

MARK MARVIN S. AGUIRRE, MED, LPT

Once again, it's March, and with April and May quickly approaching, summer is once again in the air. As reported by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), summer 2024 will actually arrive early this year. However, as the summer wore on, the temperature increased significantly, prompting the announcement of El Niño and placing the Philippines under "El Niño watch." Extreme heat waves brought on by the Central and Eastern Pacific Ocean's noticeably warmer surface waters are typically used to describe this weather phenomenon.

Even though it's a phenomenon that occurs every two to seven years, it's clearly having a worse effect on us. One excellent example is how the drought is affecting our economy because it poses threats to food production. In addition to the drought, sudden heavy rains, flooding, and extreme heat make it unsafe for our farmers and any workers who must work outside.

In order to protect students from the extreme heat this month of the year, the Department of Education has been talking about reverting to the previous school calendar, which was moved owing to COVID outbreaks. However, a lot of Filipinos have been visiting beaches or islands to cool down on these sweltering days. This event has been a wonderful chance to recognize the beauty of our land, which is, as some have said, a perfect summertime beach vacation for those looking for one.

However, we must not lose sight of the fact that El Niño poses a threat to us, impacting not only our way of life but also our health. We need to figure out how to assist our bodies in absorbing less heat. By May, PAGASA may potentially elevate the El Niño status, which is something to be concerned about. Positively, though, the rainy season will arrive in a few more weeks, so we only need to get through this intense heat wave we're presently having.

-oOoThe author is Teacher I at Telesforo & Natividad Alfonso High School