Manila: The weather bureau is urging the public to observe proper water management amid El Ni±o. "Moderate to strong El Ni±o is present in the tropical Pacific," Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief Ana Liza Solis said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview on Tuesday. Solis said it would be good to create or invest in rainwater harvesting facilities so the water can be used during the warm and dry season.

According to Philippines News Agency, Solis emphasized the importance of proper water management and coordination with water utilities, water concessionaires, and government agencies concerned with water security. She also advised the public to monitor PAGASA's advisories. Solis noted a significant reduction in rainfall is expected after the southwest monsoon or 'habagat' season. The reduction could range from 40 percent to more than 80 percent by the end of November.

Dry conditions are forecast in Davao del Sur, Occidental Davao, and Sarangani. "Around 44 provinces will experience dry condition, and dry spell in 17 provinces. Drought is forecast in Camarines Sur," Solis said. The weather bureau defines dry condition as two consecutive months of below-normal (21 percent to 60 percent reduction from average) rainfall conditions. A dry spell is either three consecutive months of below-normal rainfall or two consecutive months of way below-normal (more than 60 percent reduction from average) rainfall conditions. Drought involves three consecutive months of way below-normal rainfall or five consecutive months of below-normal rainfall conditions.

Solis mentioned that the areas in Luzon affected by the habagat are likely to be the same areas that will face drought. A significant reduction in rainfall will affect a large part of the country until next year, she added.