El Niño brings heat, disease risks to Iloilo, IPHO warns

ILOILO CITY — The threat of El Niño extends beyond drought and water shortages, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) warned, citing increased risks of dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and infectious diseases.

In a Nov. 4 statement, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rodney Labis urged residents and local government units (LGUs) to strengthen preparations against the possible effects of the weather phenomenon.

“We are calling on everyone to prepare and take precautions against the possible effects of El Niño on our health,” Labis said.

Dry spell grips Iloilo

The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), in its October monitoring update, reported that a strong to very strong El Niño was present in the tropical Pacific.

The phenomenon is expected to peak before the end of 2026 and persist through the first quarter of 2027, with its effects possibly extending through the first half of the year.

In a Sept. 23 climate advisory, PAGASA said the El Niño was expected to intensify into a very strong event between September and December 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027.

The Philippines last experienced very strong El Niño events in 1982-1983 and 1997-1998.

In Western Visayas, Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, and Guimaras are projected to experience dry spells in November, while Capiz is expected to be under drought conditions.

Iloilo province officially entered a dry spell on Nov. 1, according to the Provincial Community Defense Action Center (PCDAC).

PAGASA defines a dry spell as three consecutive months of rainfall 21 to 60 percent below average.

The development follows months of below-normal rainfall associated with the strengthening El Niño.

El Niño is characterized by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific.

It can bring below-normal rainfall to parts of the Philippines, increasing the likelihood of prolonged dry conditions, water shortages, and agricultural losses.

Heat illness warning

As part of the province’s El Niño public health preparedness plan, the IPHO urged residents to take preventive measures.

Residents were advised to drink enough clean, safe water throughout the day, especially when spending time outdoors.

“Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during peak hours. If possible, schedule outdoor activities during cooler hours in the morning or late afternoon,” Labis said.

He also recommended wearing comfortable clothing and taking regular breaks in shaded or well-ventilated areas.

He reminded residents to watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

“Confusion, convulsions, and excessive drooling may indicate heat stroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention,” Labis said.

Water, sanitation, and dengue

To ensure safe water use amid possible shortages, households were urged to conserve water without compromising supplies for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.

Water storage containers should also be kept clean and covered to prevent contamination and mosquito breeding.

The IPHO likewise emphasized proper handwashing, safe food handling, and environmental sanitation to prevent diarrhea and other infectious diseases.

Despite the dry conditions, residents were also urged to sustain dengue prevention efforts by eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

They were reminded to follow the Department of Health’s (DOH) 4S strategy: Search and destroy breeding sites; Secure self-protection; Seek early consultation; and Support fogging or spraying in areas with increasing cases when warranted.

Protecting vulnerable groups

The IPHO also called on LGUs to strengthen local preparedness efforts by ensuring access to safe drinking water, reinforcing health services, monitoring disease trends, and issuing timely public health advisories.

The provincial health office stressed the need to prioritize children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and people with existing medical conditions, who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat and water shortages.

Residents experiencing symptoms were advised to seek medical attention promptly.

Those with existing medical conditions were also reminded to continue taking prescribed medications and to consult their health care providers when necessary.

The IPHO said it would continue coordinating with concerned agencies and local health units to strengthen preparedness and protect communities from the possible health impacts of El Niño.