The Philippines is currently grappling with the peak of a grueling warm and dry season, as temperatures hit new yearly highs and vital water reserves begin to dwindle.
According to PAGASA, Echague, Isabela set a fresh record for 2026 on Sunday, May 10, with the mercury soaring to 40.0°C. This follows intense heat in Camiling, Tarlac and Tuguegarao City, which both logged 39.6°C in recent days. While these figures are historic for the year, they remain shy of the all-time national record of 42.2°C set in Tuguegarao in 1912 and 1969.
The “real feel” or heat index has reached even more hazardous levels. Borongan City, Eastern Samar, hit a scorching 48°C on Monday, the highest calculated this season. Forecasters warn that nearly 30 localities are expected to remain in the “danger” zone on Tuesday, with Tuguegarao City projected to reach a heat index of 45°C.
Despite the entry of Tropical Cyclone Caloy (Hagupit) into the Philippine Area of Responsibility, relief appears unlikely. Experts suggest the storm will spare the country, likely weakening due to the same dry air currently fueling the heatwave.
Water Supply Concerns
The prolonged dry spell is now threatening Metro Manila’s water security. As of Monday morning, the Angat Dam water level fell to 179.78 meters, officially sliding below its 180-meter minimum operating level.
”Once the minimum operating level is reached, water allocation for domestic consumption is typically prioritized.”
As the dam provides 90% of the capital’s water, authorities are monitoring the situation closely. If levels continue to decline toward the critical 160-meter mark, residents may face mandatory service interruptions and water rationing.