Frost hits Benguet flower farm amid El Niño

ATOK, Benguet , Philippines — Flowers at an agro-tourism farm in this town were covered with frost early yesterday morning, surprising workers and the farm owner who did not expect the phenomenon to occur as the country is experiencing a super El Niño.

The owner of Haight’s Place said frost blanketed portions of the farm in Barangay Paoay at around 6 a.m. as the temperature dropped to 10 degrees Celsius.

In a post on social media, the owner said the phenomenon surprised them as they did not expect frost to develop due to the prevailing El Niño.

No damage to the flowers has been observed so far as the frost was thin.

However, the farm owner warned that prolonged exposure to frost could damage the plants, particularly if the condition persists for several days.

Haight’s Place is known for its flower fields, misty surroundings and rustic log cabins.

The farm serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the nearby Sakura Park where the country’s first blooming Japanese cherry blossoms can be seen.

The appearance of the frost is an added attraction in Atok, although prolonged occurrence poses a challenge to flower growers and their produce.

Meanwhile,
in-person classes in public elementary and high schools in Dagupan, Pangasinan were canceled yesterday due to extreme heat conditions associated with the super El Niño.

Mayor Belen Fernandez directed school officials to shift to alternative modes of learning to maintain continuity of lessons and learning activities.

Fernandez said prolonged exposure to excessive heat may impair the ability of teachers and students to effectively participate in educational activities.

She said that heat could cause illnesses including heat exhaustion and stroke.

“The prevailing extreme heat condition, aggravated by the effects of the super El Niño, requires precautionary measures to prevent potential health risks and ensure the safety and well-being of the school community,” Fernandez said.