PAGASA warns 12 areas may experience drought by end of November

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 03, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Billion Bricks

Twelve areas across the Philippines could face drought by the end of November as the country continues to feel the effects of a strong to very strong El Niño, according to the state weather bureau.

The areas identified by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) are Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Capiz, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Samar, Siquijor, Southern Leyte, Misamis Oriental and Isabela City in Basilan.

The forecast also covers Tacloban City in Leyte and Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental.

Aside from the 12 areas facing possible drought, PAGASA said 57 areas may experience dry spells, while 11 others could have dry conditions before the month ends.

PAGASA classifies drought as three consecutive months of rainfall at least 60 percent below normal, or five consecutive months of rainfall 21 to 60 percent below normal.

A dry spell refers to three consecutive months of below-normal rainfall or two consecutive months of rainfall more than 60 percent below normal. Dry conditions, meanwhile, occur when rainfall remains 21 to 60 percent below normal for two consecutive months.

The weather bureau expects way-below-normal rainfall in Metro Manila, Northern Luzon, Marinduque, Romblon, Mindoro, parts of Central Luzon, CALABARZON, the Bicol Region and Palawan this November.

Much of Southern Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao may also receive below-normal rainfall.

PAGASA said the ongoing El Niño is expected to reach its peak before the end of 2026 and may persist until the first quarter of 2027, with its effects potentially extending through the first half of next year.

The prolonged dry conditions could put additional pressure on water supplies, agriculture and communities that depend on regular rainfall.

Authorities have urged the public to conserve water and prepare for possible shortages as the country braces for the continuing effects of El Niño.