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Climate refers to the long-term patterns and trends in weather conditions that
prevail in a particular region or across the globe. Climate is affected by a variety
of factors, including the amount of solar radiation that a region receives, the
composition of the atmosphere, the presence of oceans and other bodies of
water, and the movement of air masses.

Climate is typically described in terms of key variables, such as temperature,

precipitation, humidity, and wind patterns, that are measured over extended
periods of time, typically over a period of several decades or more. Climate
plays a critical role in shaping the natural environment, influencing everything
from the distribution of plant and animal species to the frequency and severity
of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes.

The Philippines is a tropical country located near the equator and is surrounded
by various bodies of water, such as the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea.
These factors influence the country's climate, which is characterized by high
humidity, abundant rainfall, and relatively constant temperatures throughout
the year.
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Types of Climate in the Philippines

The climate in the Philippines can be divided into several types, each with its
own unique characteristics. Here are some of the main climate types found in
the country:

Tropical Rainforest Climate

This climate type is found in some parts of the Philippines, particularly in the
eastern and southern parts of Mindanao. It is characterized by abundant rainfall
throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. The average annual
precipitation in these areas is usually around 2,500 to 3,500 mm, with the
heaviest rainfall occurring during the months of November to January. The
temperature in these areas is relatively constant throughout the year, with an
average of around 25°C to 27°C.

Tropical Monsoon Climate

This climate type is found in most parts of the Philippines, particularly in the
western and central regions. It is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons,
with heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons during the wet season. The dry
season usually occurs from December to May, while the wet season occurs from
June to November. The average annual precipitation in these areas is usually
around 1,500 to 2,500 mm, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the
months of July to September. The temperature in these areas is relatively
constant throughout the year, with an average of around 27°C to 29°C.

Tropical Savanna Climate

This climate type is found in some parts of the country, particularly in the
western part of Luzon. It is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with
relatively low rainfall during the dry season. The dry season usually occurs from
November to April, while the wet season occurs from May to October. The
average annual precipitation in these areas is usually around 1,000 to 1,500
mm, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the months of July to
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September. The temperature in these areas is relatively constant throughout the

year, with an average of around 27°C to 29°C.

Subtropical Highland Climate

This climate type is found in some parts of the country, particularly in the
northern part of Luzon. It is characterized by cooler temperatures due to higher
elevations, with occasional frost and fog during the winter months. The
temperature in these areas usually ranges from 15°C to 25°C, depending on the
elevation. The average annual precipitation in these areas is usually around
1,500 to 3,000 mm, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the months of
July to October.

Aside from these main climate types, the Philippines also experiences a
monsoon season, which occurs from May to October. During this time, strong
winds and heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides in some areas,
particularly in low-lying and coastal regions. The country also experiences
occasional typhoons, which can cause widespread damage and disruption to
daily life.

Overall, the climate in the Philippines is generally warm and humid, with
abundant rainfall and relatively constant temperatures throughout the year.
However, specific climate patterns can vary depending on the region, with some
areas experiencing cooler temperatures due to higher elevations or proximity to
the sea.
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In addition to its white sand beaches and scenic mountain views, one of the
things that make the Philippines more attractive to foreign tourists is the
climate. The climate in the Philippines is tropical which is ideal for various
outdoor activities like beach-bumming and mountain climbing. Depending on
the topography and location in the country, the climate is classified further into
five types: tropical rainforest, tropical monsoon, tropical savanna, humid
subtropical and oceanic (both are in higher-altitude areas) characterized by
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relatively high temperature, oppressive humidity and plenty of rainfall. Climate

is classified depending on the elevation and location in the country.

Tropical Rainforest

Tropical rainforest is characterized as hot, very humid, and wet. Normally, there
is no dry season in a tropical rainforest climate, and even if there is, it is very
short. Heavy rainfall is therefore expected throughout the year. Provinces with
tropical rainforest climate are those located near the equator.

The Philippines is home to some of the world's most biologically diverse and
ecologically significant rainforests. These tropical rainforests are characterized
by their dense vegetation, tall trees, and high levels of rainfall. They provide
habitats for a vast array of flora and fauna, and play critical roles in maintaining
ecological balance and regulating the climate.

Geographical Location

The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia and is composed of over 7,000

islands. Its rainforests are primarily found in the eastern regions of the country,
particularly on the islands of Luzon, Mindanao, and Samar. These regions have
high levels of rainfall and humidity, which support the growth of lush
vegetation.

Vegetation

The rainforests in the Philippines are home to a diverse range of flora, including
endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. These forests
contain an estimated 8,000 plant species, with many of them having medicinal
and economic uses. Some of the dominant tree species found in the rainforests
include dipterocarps, figs, palms, and bamboo.

The rainforests in the Philippines also have a rich understory layer, which
includes vines, ferns, and mosses. Epiphytes, or plants that grow on other
plants, are also abundant in these forests. These plants play critical roles in
maintaining the health of the forest ecosystem, including providing habitat for
insects, birds, and other animals.
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Fauna

The rainforests in the Philippines are home to an estimated 200 mammal

species, 600 bird species, and 300 reptile and amphibian species. Many of
these species are endemic to the Philippines, meaning that they are found
nowhere else in the world.

Some of the iconic species found in the rainforests of the Philippines include
the Philippine tarsier, a small primate with large eyes and a long tail, and the
Philippine eagle, one of the largest eagles in the world. Other notable species
include the Palawan bearcat, the Philippine flying lemur, and the Visayan warty
pig.

Threats

Despite the ecological importance of the rainforests in the Philippines, they are
facing significant threats from human activities such as deforestation, logging,
and mining. These activities have led to habitat destruction and fragmentation,
loss of biodiversity, and soil erosion. The conversion of rainforests into
agricultural land and human settlements has also contributed to the decline of
these forests.

Climate change is also posing a threat to the rainforests in the Philippines.

Rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns can alter the forest
ecosystem, leading to changes in vegetation and loss of habitat for wildlife.

Conservation Efforts

Several organizations and government agencies are working to conserve the

rainforests in the Philippines. The Philippine government has established
protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to safeguard
the rainforest ecosystem. These areas provide habitat for endangered species
and support sustainable forest management practices.

Non-governmental organizations are also working to raise awareness about the

importance of rainforest conservation and to promote sustainable land use
practices. Community-based forest management programs have been
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implemented in some areas, which involve local communities in the

management and conservation of the forest ecosystem.

Tropical Monsoon

Tropical monsoon is characterized by more rainfall, or less pronounced dry

season. This type of climate comes between tropical rainforest climate and
tropical savanna climate.

The Philippines has a tropical monsoon climate, which is characterized by

distinct wet and dry seasons. This type of climate is also known as the Am
climate, according to the Koppen climate classification system. The monsoon
season in the Philippines usually occurs from May to October, while the dry
season is from November to April.

During the monsoon season, the country experiences heavy rainfall, with some
areas receiving over 3,000 millimeters of rain per year. This rainfall is brought
about by the southwest monsoon, which is also known as the Habagat. The
Habagat is a wind system that blows from the southwest, carrying warm, moist
air from the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea.

The Habagat causes the Philippines to experience strong and frequent rain
showers, thunderstorms, and even typhoons during the monsoon season. The
rainfall is typically heaviest in the western and central regions of the country,
particularly in areas such as Luzon, Mindoro, and Palawan. In contrast, the
eastern parts of the country, such as the Visayas and Mindanao, receive less
rainfall during the monsoon season.

The monsoon season can also bring about flooding and landslides in some
areas of the Philippines, particularly in low-lying and mountainous regions.
These natural disasters can cause significant damage to infrastructure and
agriculture, as well as loss of life.

During the dry season, the country experiences relatively less rainfall, with
some areas receiving less than 1,000 millimeters of rain per year. The dry
season is characterized by sunny weather, with occasional thunderstorms in
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some areas. The dry season is also the peak tourist season in the Philippines, as
the weather is generally favorable for outdoor activities such as beach-going
and sightseeing.

The tropical monsoon climate in the Philippines is characterized by a distinct

wet and dry season. During the monsoon season, the country experiences
heavy rainfall, strong winds, and occasional typhoons brought about by the
southwest monsoon or Habagat. The dry season, on the other hand, is
characterized by sunny weather with less rainfall. The monsoon season can also
bring about natural disasters such as flooding and landslides.

Tropical Savanna
In contrast to tropical monsoon, tropical savanna has a dry season and gets less
rainfall. Dry season can become severe

The tropical savanna climate, also known as Aw climate in the Koppen climate
classification system, is one of the major climate types in the Philippines. This
type of climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with a
prolonged period of drought during the dry season.

The tropical savanna climate in the Philippines is mainly found in the eastern
parts of the country, particularly in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, and
Quirino in the Cagayan Valley Region. This climate type is also present in some
parts of Mindanao.

The wet season in the tropical savanna climate in the Philippines typically
occurs from May to October, with peak rainfall in July and August. During this
period, the country experiences regular rainfall, thunderstorms, and occasional
typhoons. The amount of rainfall during the wet season varies from 1,000 to
1,500 millimeters per year.

The dry season in the tropical savanna climate in the Philippines usually begins
in November and ends in April. During this period, the country experiences
prolonged drought and hot and humid weather. The temperature can reach up
to 35 degrees Celsius or higher, especially during the months of March to May.
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The prolonged dry season in the tropical savanna climate in the Philippines can
have significant impacts on agriculture and water resources. The lack of rainfall
can cause water scarcity and affect crop yields, leading to food insecurity in
some areas. In response to this, the government has implemented various
programs to promote sustainable water management and agricultural practices
in the affected areas.

The tropical savanna climate in the Philippines supports a variety of plant and
animal species adapted to the dry and wet seasons. Grasses and trees such as
acacia and eucalyptus dominate the landscape, while animals such as deer, wild
pigs, and monkeys can be found in the region.

Humid Subtropical
Humid subtropical climate is characterized by hot and humid summers, and
cold to mild winters. Provinces with this type of climate are typically located at
or near coastal areas.

The humid subtropical climate, also known as Cfa climate in the Koppen climate
classification system, is a climate type that is characterized by hot and humid
summers and mild winters with occasional snowfall. This climate type is
typically found in the mid-latitudes, usually between 30 and 40 degrees north
and south of the equator.

In the Philippines, the humid subtropical climate is mainly found in the higher
elevations of Luzon, particularly in the Cordillera Administrative Region and
parts of the Central Luzon Region. This climate type is also present in some
parts of Mindanao.

The humid subtropical climate in the Philippines is characterized by a relatively

uniform distribution of rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual
precipitation of 1,000 to 2,000 millimeters. The wettest months are from June
to October, with peak rainfall occurring in August and September.

The temperature in the humid subtropical climate in the Philippines varies

depending on the elevation. At lower elevations, the average temperature
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ranges from 22 to 26 degrees Celsius, while at higher elevations, the

temperature can drop to 10 degrees Celsius or lower during the winter months.

The humid subtropical climate in the Philippines supports a variety of plant and
animal species adapted to the hot and humid summers and mild winters.
Forests dominated by evergreen and deciduous trees such as oak, pine, and
maple are common in the region. Animals such as deer, wild boar, and various
bird species can also be found in the area.

The humid subtropical climate in the Philippines has significant impacts on

agriculture and water resources. The relatively uniform distribution of rainfall
throughout the year allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops, such as rice,
corn, and vegetables. However, the hot and humid summers can also increase
the risk of pests and diseases, which can affect crop yields.

Oceanic
Oceanic climate has cool summers and cool but not cold winters. It rarely
experiences dry season as rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year,
however they may get constant storms which cause cloudy or overcast
conditions.

Weather -vs- Climate

Weather is the combination of temperature, precipitation, cloud cover, winds,
relative humidity, and air pressure as they are experienced on
a DAILY basis. Climate refers to weather conditions of a place averaged over
a 30-YEAR period. The main elements of climate are temperature and
precipitation.
Weather in the Philippines is generally tropical and humid, with high
temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The country experiences
two main seasons - the dry season and the rainy season - but due to its
location in the western Pacific, the Philippines is also affected by typhoons and
monsoons.

The dry season in the Philippines typically runs from November to April, while
the rainy season is from May to October. During the dry season, temperatures
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can range from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius, with lower humidity levels than
during the rainy season. However, temperatures can feel much hotter due to
the lack of rain and the direct sunlight.

The rainy season in the Philippines brings heavy rainfall and frequent
thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. The amount of
rainfall varies from region to region, with some areas experiencing more rain
than others. During the rainy season, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler,
ranging from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius.

The Philippines is also affected by typhoons, which are powerful tropical storms
with winds of at least 119 kilometers per hour. Typhoon season in the
Philippines typically runs from June to November, with the peak of the season
usually occurring in September. Typhoons can bring heavy rain, strong winds,
and storm surges, which can cause flooding and landslides.

In addition to typhoons, the Philippines is also affected by monsoons, which are

seasonal winds that bring heavy rainfall to certain regions. The southwest
monsoon, or habagat, typically occurs from May to October and brings heavy
rain to the western side of the country. The northeast monsoon, or amihan,
occurs from November to April and brings cooler, drier weather to the
Philippines.

The climate and weather in the Philippines have a significant impact on daily
life, particularly in terms of agriculture and transportation. Farmers must plan
their planting and harvesting schedules around the rainy and dry seasons, while
commuters and travelers must take into account potential delays and
cancellations due to typhoons and other extreme weather events.
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Overall, the weather in the Philippines is tropical and humid, with high
temperatures and heavy rainfall during the rainy season. The country is also
affected by typhoons and monsoons, which can cause flooding and other
hazards. Understanding and planning for the climate and weather patterns in
the Philippines is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of its
inhabitants.

Whereas weather refers to short-term changes in the atmosphere, climate

describes what the weather is like over a long period of time in a specific
area. Different regions can have different climates. Weather tells you what to
wear each day. Or as I like to say … climate is what you expect … weather is
what you get.
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Types of Climates

Aside from the types mentioned above, climate is also classified based on
rainfall distribution.The climate varies throughout the Philippines. The map
below depicts the different types of climate throughout the Philippine Islands.
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Seasons
The Philippines has two main seasons: rainy and dry also referred to
as Summer and Winter. Rainy season is from June to early part of October while
the dry season is from later part of October until May with months of April and
May as the hottest and driest months.

Temperature
Based on the measurement of all the weather stations in the Philippines,
except Baguio, the average year-round temperature of the country is 26.6℃
(79.9 ℉). Cooler days are usually experienced in January with an average
temperature of 25.5℃ (77.9 ℉). Warmer days, on the other hand, are
experienced in May with an average temperature of 28.3℃ (82.9 ℉). Baguio,
due to its elevation which is 1,500m (4,900ft) above sea level, has an average
temperature of 18.3℃ (64.9 ℉).
Average temperatures in the Philippines usually range between 21 °C (70 °F) and
32 °C (90 °F) with the average yearly temperature around 26.6 °C (79.9 °F).
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Temperatures can fluctuate between regions and depending on the season,

however generally January is the coolest month while May is the warmest.
The Philippines has a tropical climate, which is characterized by high
temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two
main seasons: the dry season, which typically lasts from December to May, and
the wet season, which lasts from June to November. During the dry season,
temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while during the wet season,
temperatures typically range between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F).

Factors Affecting Temperature in the Philippines

Several factors affect the temperature in the Philippines, including the country's
location, topography, and climate patterns. The Philippines is located near the
equator, which means that it receives direct sunlight throughout the year,
leading to high temperatures. The country's numerous islands and coastline
also affect the temperature, with coastal areas typically experiencing slightly
cooler temperatures than inland areas.

The country's topography also plays a role in the temperature, with

mountainous areas generally experiencing cooler temperatures than low-lying
areas. The Philippines is also affected by climate patterns such as the El Niño
and La Niña, which can cause fluctuations in temperature and rainfall patterns.

Highest Recorded Temperatures in the Philippines

The highest recorded temperature in the Philippines was 42.2°C (108°F), which
was recorded in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan on April 22, 1912. This temperature
is considered the highest ever recorded in the country, and it occurred during
the hottest time of the year, which is typically between March and May.

Other notable high temperatures in the Philippines include:

41.6°C (107°F) in Dagupan City, Pangasinan on April 29, 2019

40.4°C (105°F) in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija on May 11, 1969

40.0°C (104°F) in Cotabato City, Maguindanao on May 1, 1969

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39.9°C (104°F) in Science Garden, Quezon City on May 14, 1987

While these high temperatures are rare occurrences, they can have significant
impacts on people and the environment. High temperatures can cause heat
exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the
elderly and young children. They can also cause drought and wildfires, which
can lead to agricultural losses and displacement of communities.

The temperature in the Philippines is typically high throughout the year, with
temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) depending on the season
and location. The country's tropical climate, location near the equator, and
topography all contribute to the temperature patterns in the country. While high
temperatures can be uncomfortable for people, they can also have significant
impacts on the environment and communities, particularly during extreme
events such as heatwaves.
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Humidity
Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air while relative humidity is the
percentage of water vapor in the air at a given temperature. In the Philippines,
relative humidity is high, therefore making the hot temperatures feel hotter.
High relative humidity in the country is due to three factors: the evaporation of
seas surrounding the country, the different prevailing winds in the different
seasons of the year and of course, the significant amount of rainfall which is
normal in tropical countries. It’s not the heat … it’s the humidity that makes
you feel uncomfortable … It’s important to understand HUMIDEX …

Humidity is an important aspect of the climate in the Philippines, as the country

is located in a region that experiences high levels of moisture in the air due to
its proximity to the equator and its surrounding bodies of water.

Humidity is a measure of the amount of moisture in the air, and it is usually

expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount of moisture that the air can
hold at a given temperature. In the Philippines, the humidity levels can be quite
high, particularly during the wet season when the air is filled with moisture
from the surrounding seas.

The high humidity in the Philippines can have a significant impact on the
country's climate and daily life. Here are some of the ways that humidity affects
the Philippines:

Temperature Perception

High humidity can make the temperature feel much hotter than it actually is.
This is because the moisture in the air can prevent sweat from evaporating
quickly from the skin, which is the body's natural way of cooling down. In the
Philippines, this can make even moderately warm temperatures feel quite
uncomfortable, particularly during the wet season when the humidity levels are
at their highest.
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Air Quality

High humidity can also affect the quality of the air in the Philippines. When the
air is saturated with moisture, it can make it difficult for pollutants and other
particles to disperse, leading to poor air quality. This can be particularly
problematic in urban areas, where high levels of traffic and industrial activity
can contribute to air pollution.

Agricultural Production

Humidity can also have an impact on agricultural production in the Philippines.

While the country's abundant rainfall is generally beneficial for crops, high
humidity levels can lead to issues such as fungal diseases and pest infestations.
This can be particularly problematic for crops such as rice, which are a staple
food in the Philippines.

Tourism

The high humidity in the Philippines can also have an impact on tourism in the
country. While the warm weather and beautiful beaches are a draw for many
tourists, the high humidity levels can make it difficult for some visitors to enjoy
outdoor activities such as hiking or sightseeing.

Overall, the high humidity in the Philippines is an important aspect of the

country's climate. While it can have some negative impacts, such as making the
temperature feel hotter and contributing to poor air quality, it is also a key
factor in the country's abundant rainfall and lush vegetation. To mitigate the
negative effects of humidity, many people in the Philippines use air
conditioning and other cooling methods to stay comfortable during the hot and
humid months.
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Rainfall
As a tropical country, the Philippines gets a significant amount of rainfall
throughout the year. The southwest monsoon, also called summer monsoon,
brings heavy rains from June to November. The annual average rainfall varies by
region with mountainous east coast getting as much as 5,000 millimeters (197
in) while sheltered valleys get less than 1,000 millimeters (39 in).

Rainfall is a crucial aspect of the climate in the Philippines, as the country is

located in a tropical region with high levels of precipitation throughout the
year.

Rainfall in the Philippines is primarily influenced by two main factors: the

prevailing winds and the topography of the country. The northeast monsoon,
which blows from November to April, brings cool, dry air to the Philippines
from the Asian mainland. This results in relatively dry weather in most parts of
the country, with the exception of the eastern coast, which is exposed to the
prevailing winds and receives more rainfall.

The southwest monsoon, which blows from May to October, brings warm, moist
air from the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea. This results in more
frequent and intense rainfall throughout the Philippines, particularly in the
western and central parts of the country. During this time, the country
experiences its wet season, which is characterized by heavy rain showers and
thunderstorms.

In addition to the monsoons, the topography of the Philippines also plays a role
in the distribution of rainfall. The country is composed of numerous islands and
mountain ranges, which can cause variations in precipitation levels between
different regions. Areas that are located on the windward side of mountain
ranges tend to receive more rainfall, as the moist air is forced upwards by the
terrain, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation.

The high levels of rainfall in the Philippines have both positive and negative
impacts on the country. Here are some of the ways that rainfall affects the
Philippines:
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Agriculture

Rainfall is essential for agriculture in the Philippines, as it provides water for

crops and livestock. The country is a major producer of rice, which requires
large amounts of water to grow. However, excessive rainfall can also lead to
flooding and crop damage, particularly in low-lying areas.

Water Resources

The high levels of rainfall in the Philippines also help to replenish the country's
water resources, including rivers, lakes, and aquifers. This is important for both
agriculture and domestic use, as many areas of the country rely on these water
sources for irrigation and drinking water.

Flood Risk

While rainfall is essential for agriculture and water resources, it can also pose a
significant risk of flooding in the Philippines. The country is prone to flash
floods and landslides during the wet season, particularly in areas with poor
drainage or steep terrain.

Tourism

The high levels of rainfall in the Philippines can also have an impact on tourism
in the country. While the wet season may not be ideal for some tourists, it can
also be a good time to visit for those who enjoy lush vegetation and water
activities such as rafting and kayaking.

Overall, rainfall is a critical aspect of the climate in the Philippines. While it can
have some negative impacts, such as flooding and crop damage, it is also
essential for agriculture and water resources in the country. Understanding the
patterns and impacts of rainfall is important for managing the risks and
opportunities associated with this aspect of the climate.

Tropical cyclones bring at least 30% of the annual rainfall in the Northern
Philippines
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Typhoons

Considering that the Philippines sits across the typhoon belt, the country gets
an average of 28 storms and/or typhoons every year but only an average of
nine made landfall or crossed the country. The areas at higher risk of typhoons
include northern and eastern Luzon, Bicol region, and Eastern Visayas region,
however, Manila may be affected as well.

Typhoons are a common occurrence in the Philippines, which is located in the

Pacific typhoon belt. A typhoon is a tropical cyclone that develops in the
northwestern Pacific Ocean, with sustained wind speeds of at least 74 miles per
hour (119 kilometers per hour). The Philippines is one of the most typhoon-
prone countries in the world, with an average of 20 typhoons passing through
the country each year.

The country's geography, with its numerous islands and long coastline, makes
it particularly vulnerable to typhoons, which can cause widespread damage and
loss of life. Here's what you need to know about typhoons in the Philippines:

Formation and Characteristics of Typhoons

Typhoons form when warm, moist air rises from the ocean's surface, causing
low-pressure conditions in the atmosphere. This leads to the formation of a
rotating storm system, with winds blowing inward toward the center of the
storm. As the storm grows and gains strength, it can develop an eye at its
center, which is a relatively calm area with clear skies.
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Typhoons are categorized based on their maximum sustained wind speeds,

with Category 1 being the weakest and Category 5 being the strongest.
Typhoons can also produce heavy rain, storm surges, and landslides, which can
cause significant damage even in areas that are not directly impacted by the
wind.

Typhoons in the Philippines

The Philippines is located in the Pacific typhoon belt, which is a region of the
western Pacific Ocean where typhoons are most likely to form. As a result, the
country is prone to typhoons throughout the year, with the strongest typhoons
typically occurring during the wet season from June to November.

The country's location also makes it vulnerable to storm surges, which are high
waves that can be pushed inland by the strong winds of a typhoon. In addition,
the mountainous terrain of the Philippines can cause heavy rainfall and
landslides, particularly in areas with poor drainage or steep slopes.

Here are some of the strongest typhoons that have hit the Philippines in recent
history:

Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) - November 2013

Super Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Typhoon Yolanda, was one of the
strongest typhoons to ever hit the Philippines. It made landfall in the central
part of the country on November 8, 2013, with maximum sustained winds of
195 miles per hour (314 kilometers per hour) and gusts of up to 235 miles per
hour (380 kilometers per hour).

The typhoon caused widespread devastation, with more than 6,000 people
killed and millions of others affected. It also caused significant damage to
infrastructure, including roads, buildings, and power lines.

Typhoon Bopha (Pablo) - December 2012

Typhoon Bopha, also known as Typhoon Pablo, hit the southern Philippines in
December 2012, with maximum sustained winds of 175 miles per hour (280
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kilometers per hour). The typhoon caused significant damage and loss of life,
with more than 1,000 people killed and thousands of others affected.

The storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges,

and buildings. It also caused landslides and flash floods, which affected many
communities in the affected areas.

Typhoon Haiyan (Megi) - October 2010

Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Typhoon Megi, hit the northern Philippines in
October 2010, with maximum sustained winds of 140 miles per hour (225
kilometers per hour). The typhoon caused

Climate has a significant impact on the design and planning of buildings,

infrastructure, and cities. Designing structures and cities that are responsive to
the climate can help reduce energy consumption, improve occupant comfort,
and increase the durability and lifespan of buildings and infrastructure. In this
article, we will discuss the various effects of climate on design planning and
how architects, engineers, and planners can design buildings and infrastructure
that are better suited for the local climate.

Temperature

One of the most important factors that architects and engineers need to
consider when designing buildings is temperature. Buildings should be
designed to provide comfort to occupants while minimizing energy
 P a g e | 24

consumption. In hot climates, buildings should be designed to reduce solar

gain and heat buildup. This can be achieved through the use of shading
devices, reflective surfaces, and insulation. In cold climates, buildings should be
designed to maximize solar gain and reduce heat loss. This can be achieved
through the use of large windows, insulation, and efficient heating systems.

Humidity

Humidity is another important factor that architects and engineers need to

consider when designing buildings. High humidity can lead to discomfort and
mold growth, while low humidity can cause dryness and discomfort. Buildings
should be designed to maintain a comfortable level of humidity through the use
of ventilation, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning systems.

Wind

Wind is an important factor that can affect the design of buildings and
infrastructure. In areas with high winds, buildings should be designed to
withstand wind loads and minimize wind infiltration. This can be achieved
through the use of aerodynamic shapes, windbreaks, and structural supports.
In areas with low winds, buildings should be designed to provide natural
ventilation and reduce the need for mechanical ventilation.

Precipitation

Precipitation is another important factor that architects and engineers need to

consider when designing buildings and infrastructure. Buildings should be
designed to withstand heavy rainfall and minimize the risk of flooding. This can
be achieved through the use of drainage systems, waterproofing, and elevated
foundations. In areas with low rainfall, buildings should be designed to
conserve water through the use of rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation
systems.

Sunlight

Sunlight is an important factor that can affect the design of buildings and
infrastructure. Buildings should be designed to maximize natural daylight and
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reduce the need for artificial lighting. This can be achieved through the use of
large windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces. In areas with high solar
radiation, buildings should be designed to reduce solar gain and heat buildup.
This can be achieved through the use of shading devices, reflective surfaces,
and insulation.

Local Climate

Local climate is an important factor that architects and engineers need to

consider when designing buildings and infrastructure. The local climate can
have a significant impact on the performance and durability of buildings and
infrastructure. Buildings and infrastructure should be designed to withstand
local weather conditions and climate change. This can be achieved through the
use of resilient materials, efficient systems, and sustainable design practices.

Urban Heat Island

Urban heat island (UHI) is a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher
temperatures than surrounding rural areas. UHI is caused by the absorption and
re-emission of solar radiation by urban surfaces, such as roads and buildings.
UHI can lead to increased energy consumption, reduced air quality, and heat-
related illnesses. Architects and planners can design buildings and
infrastructure to reduce the UHI effect by using cool roofs, green roofs, and
reflective surfaces.

In conclusion, climate has a significant impact on the design and planning of

buildings and infrastructure. Architects, engineers, and planners need to
consider the local climate when designing buildings and infrastructure to
ensure occupant comfort, energy efficiency, and durability. By designing
buildings and infrastructure that are responsive to the local climate, we can
create sustainable and resilient communities that are better suited for the
challenges of the future.
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REFERENCES

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate_of_the_Philippines#:~:text=The%20Philip
pines%20has%20five%20types,humidity%20and%20plenty%20of%20rainfall.
https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/information/climate-philippines

https://www.silent-gardens.com/climate.php

https://www.academia.edu/8208267/4_Types_Of_Climate_in_the_Philippines

https://hodgepodgestuff.wordpress.com/2015/04/27/4-climate-types-in-
the-philippines/

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Climate-types-in-the-
Philippines_fig8_294104577
https://www.slideshare.net/DennisSeracarpio/types-of-climates-in-the-
philippinespptx