March 29, 2024

After three years, Baguio recorded its lowest temperature this month.
At 6 a.m. last Friday, Feb. 21, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) recorded the lowest temperature of Baguio at 9.4 degrees Celsius (°C).
Last week, in what the public thought was a prelude to summer, temperatures rose to an average of between 14 to 18 °C. This week, temperatures dipped again.
The Pagasa said the drop in temperature is still due to the northeast monsoon or amihan.
Based on records of the Pagasa, the lowest temperatures recorded over a three-year period are: 9.8 °C on Jan. 28, 2019; 11.2 °C on March 11, 2018, and 7.3 °C on Feb. 14, 2017.
The lowest temperature recorded in modern-day Baguio was 6.3 °C on Jan. 18, 1961.
In March 1986, the city’s temperature was recorded at 9.1 °C; at 9.3 °C in March 1972, and 7.4 °C in March 1963.
The temperature in the Summer Capital also dropped to eight °C on Feb. 14, 2017, which is slightly lower than the 8.1 °C recorded on Jan. 18, 2014.
The highest temperature recorded in Baguio was 30.4 °C on March 15, 1988.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health reminded the public to be cautious especially of diseases that occur during the cold season.
The DOH said the cold weather or sudden changes in temperature usually trigger respiratory diseases.
The agency shared tips to avoid cold-weather diseases: wear appropriate clothing as protection against the cold weather especially for children and elderly. Those who already have fever, colds, or cough are advised to immediately seek medical attention and avoid crowded places to avoid complications. – Rimaliza A. Opiña