A weather bureau specialist disclosed the 55 percent probability of an El Niño to develop in the next six months due to below-normal rainfall.

El Niño is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Central and Eastern Equatorial Pacific.

In a press conference, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) weather specialist Joseph Basconcillo said there is a 62 percent probability that a weak El Niño will prevail between June and August, and an 83 percent possibility that it will persist until yearend.

He said there is a 56 percent chance that moderate El Niño will prevail between September to November, and a 60 percent likelihood between October and December.

During this period, reduced rainfall and drier-than-usual conditions may be experienced in some parts of the country.

In an advisory, Pagasa said the below-normal rainfall could result in a dry spell and drought in some areas.

Pagasa, however, said the western section of the country may experience above-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon or habagat season. (PNA)