TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Samar is preparing for possible prolonged drought and worsening dry conditions as the El Niño phenomenon is expected to intensify toward the end of 2026, with authorities warning of potential impacts on water supplies, agriculture, livelihoods and fire risks.
The Eastern Samar Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (PDRRMC) said the province has already experienced dry spells from June to September, while drought conditions are projected from October through March.
The outlook was presented by Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-Pagasa) Weather Station Chief Ricardo Galupe during the PDRRMC’s third-quarter meeting on Sept. 30.
Galupe said the developing El Niño is expected to strengthen from weak to at least moderate levels, with the possibility of reaching strong to very strong intensity toward the end of the year.
In response, the PDRRMC called for continued monitoring of weather and climate conditions, timely dissemination of official advisories, water conservation and adjustments in agricultural activities, including planting schedules, crop selection and farm preparedness.
The committee also urged government agencies, local governments and communities to maintain close coordination as the province prepares for the possible effects of prolonged dry conditions.
Provincial Science and Technology Director Dr. Arnaldo Amosco Jr. clarified that a drought classification does not mean that rainfall will stop completely.
Under the definition used by Pagasa, an area may be classified as experiencing drought when rainfall remains below normal levels for three consecutive months, Amosco said.
The PDRRMC also discussed anticipatory measures to protect water resources, agriculture, livelihoods and essential services from possible water shortages, agricultural losses, heat-related health concerns and fires.
The dry conditions have also raised concerns over fire incidents in the province.
The Bureau of Fire Protection-Eastern Samar reported 26 fire incidents from Jan. 1 to Sept. 28, compared with 16 incidents during the same period last year.
Damage from the fires also increased to P14.73 million from P5.09 million in 2025, according to the BFP.
The agency said it is coordinating with local governments and barangays to prevent wildland, grass and forest fires, while urging residents to avoid kaingin, open burning and other practices that could trigger fires.
The BFP also called on local governments to enforce ordinances regulating the indiscriminate burning of vegetation, agricultural waste and other combustible materials.
It reported implementing water rationing and providing community support in areas affected by temporary water shortages.
Plans to activate additional fire stations in Maydolong and Mercedes were also presented during the meeting to expand fire protection coverage and improve emergency response in the province.
The meeting was presided over by Vice Gov. Maricar Sison-Goteesan, who represented Gov. Ralph Vincent Evardone.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
