THE amihan, or the northeast monsoon season, has ended, signifying the start of warmer conditions. Yes, the dry season has started, according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) yesterday.
During the dry season, rains in watersheds would be sparse or even non-existent so expect consumed water not to get replenished right away. The best thing people can do is to be prudent in using the scarce water.
Communities can be practical and start installing rainwater harvesting systems in their areas. To fight prolonged freshwater shortages during dry spells, they would do well to put up simple rainwater collectors. Rainwater stockpiles can also supply farmers extra water for irrigation throughout arid conditions.
Pagasa defines drought as “three consecutive months of way below normal rainfall condition, or greater than 60-percent reduction from average rainfall.” We have not reached that point yet. But we should not wait for that to happen.
Now more than ever, we should all work harder to give greater meaning to the Rainwater Collector and Springs Development Law of 1989, or Republic Act 6715. Does anybody know what this law is? This 30-year-old law requires the Department of Public Works and Highways to construct rainwater collectors in all barangays countrywide. Has it done this?
Less rainfall means less water supply. Among the most affected in times like this is the water supply for irrigation. Our agriculture sector could take a beating if it’s unprepared. Farmers could engage in alternative measures including modified cropping calendar and pattern and planting of short-gestating rice varieties.
Let us observe practical measures to efficiently use our water resource like gathering and storing rainwater for daily chores, using water dipper instead of shower when bathing, turning off faucets properly, and immediately repairing leaking pipes and running toilets, among others.
We cannot stop a dry spell. The most that we can do is prepare for its adverse effects in the water and food sectors. If we consolidate all efforts and do our share, we can overcome this dry season./PN
