Frost affects Benguet crops amid El Niño

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While much of the country grapples with El Niño-induced heat, frost was observed on crops in parts of Benguet on Thursday morning.

In a "24 Oras" report, some crops in Atok, Benguet had “frost” or “andap” on them from around 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the temperature had reached 12.6 degrees Celsius in Benguet.

These types of temperatures are usually recorded in January or February during the Northeast Monsoon or Amihan season.

However, PAGASA said that there are times when frost could occur in plants even a few weeks after the Amihan season is declared.

This is also possible during the El Niño season.

The state weather bureau had declared the beginning of the Amihan season in late October. However, PAGASA said that this Amihan season is expected to be warmer compared to previous years due to the ongoing El Niño. —Jean Mangaluz/LDF, GMA News