The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warns that a “very strong El Niño” is likely to emerge between September and December 2026 and may continue into the first half of 2027. 

A study from the University of Chicago’s Climate Impacts Lab also estimates that the phenomenon will raise global average temperatures enough to cause 451,000 excess deaths by February, 6,500 of which will be in the Philippines.

All these reports and figures point to one thing: be prepared. Sure, you’re no Aang of Avatar: The Last Airbender or X-Men’s Storm, but there are a few simple ways you can weather the storm—or, in this case, the sweltering heat, and protect your home, health, and budget from the worst of Super El Niño

1. Don’t go outside unless it’s necessary

Dry spells and extreme heat are virtually certain during El Niño. Throw the ‘super’ label into the mix, and you can only imagine how red-hot and humid the weather will be. Spoiler alert: not the kind of dreamy summer that’ll give you a cute tan.

This isn’t to say you’re not allowed to go outside—of course, you can! But make sure you have your summer essentials (e.g., sunscreen, a water bottle/tumbler, and an umbrella) wherever you go.

2. Make room for water storage bins

El Niño often brings low water pressure and water interruptions. That said, a couple of clean, reusable water bins around the house can save you days spent desperately praying for rain. Just don’t forget to change the water in your water bins from time to time because why wouldn’t you?

3. Track your water consumption

I hate to break it to you, but with the threat of Super El Niño, you might need to take it easy on hour-long showers or letting water run while brushing your teeth. If you can stretch that PHP 100 in your bank wallet ’til the next payday, conserving water should be like a regular Tuesday for you.

4. Repair any leaks or broken pipes

Your water conservation efforts are practically useless if your home is riddled with leaks. Don’t try to DIY those broken pipes either, because that can easily lead to far more expensive repairs. If you see faucet or showerhead leaks, call your water service provider immediately and let the pros handle it.

5. Stock up on non-perishable items

A report by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) noted that agricultural losses this year have reached a whopping PHP 5.56 billion due to the ongoing El Niño. With a Super El Niño on the horizon, it won’t hurt to start preparing for worst-case scenarios like food shortages. 

Canned goods, bottled water, spreads, and condiments are must-haves in your pantry because they can last a looong time. But please don’t confuse stocking up with clearing the whole aisle. Aside from extreme heat, nothing’s more of a bummer than selfish panic buying.

6. Stay hydrated

Mimiyuuuh once said, “Drink your water, b*tch!” and she most certainly won’t be the last to remind you how important hydration is. Prolonged heatwaves make you more vulnerable to fatigue, dehydration, or worse, heatstroke—even inside your home. So, please do yourself (and your forgotten water tumbler) a favor and drink up!

7. Watch out for brownouts and power interruptions

During El Niño, the country’s power grid operates under severe strain to keep up with surging demand. The Department of Energy (DOE) has warned that Filipinos should watch out for more frequent power outages and higher electricity bills as the country braces for the impact of a Super El Niño.

That said, investing in portable power banks and solar-powered generators (depending on your budget) is essential to keep your household running smoothly.

8. Keep calm and breathe

You’ve probably seen these two words on countless Pinterest boards, on graphic tees, and at your favorite tita’s place that one time, but they’re still worth repeating. Humanity can’t control El Niño, least of all a variant with a “super” in its name.

There’s only so much you can do, and sometimes, that’s all there is to it. Monitor the news, keep an eye out for food price hikes—but don’t let any of it ruin the most expensive thing you have: your peace of mind.

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