Manila: A weather bureau specialist on Wednesday disclosed the 55 percent probability of an El Ni±o to develop in the next six months due to below-normal rainfall. El Ni±o is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Central and Eastern Equatorial Pacific.

According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) weather specialist Joseph Basconcillo stated there is a 62 percent probability that a weak El Ni±o would prevail between June to August, with an 83 percent possibility that it will persist until yearend. Basconcillo further noted a 56 percent chance that a moderate El Ni±o will prevail between September to November, increasing to a 60 percent likelihood between October to December.

During this period, reduced rainfall and drier-than-usual conditions may be experienced in some parts of the country. In an advisory, PAGASA warned that the below-normal rainfall could lead to dry spells and drought in some areas. However, the weather agency also indicated that the western section of the country might experience above-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon or habagat season.