Record-Breaking Chill in Benguet as Christmas Season Dips
The cold snap in Benguet has deepened just as many locals prepare for the Christmas holidays. La Trinidad, the provincial capital famed for its cool climate and strawberry farms, recorded the season’s lowest temperature yet this year: 12.1 degrees Celsius (°C) early Sunday, December 28. This reading breaks the previous season low of 12.4°C set just two and a half weeks earlier on December 4, underscoring an unusually brisk December for the highland province.
Temperatures in Benguet can swing noticeably during the cool-season period, but the latest reading is notable for its relatively early arrival in the holiday season. While 12.1°C is not unprecedented in the Cordillera region, it does signal a strong cold front sweeping across northern Luzon and resting over Benguet’s high-altitude plateaus. Local weather watchers say such dips are not unusual, yet they are always a reminder of the province’s alpine charm and the challenges of keeping homes and farms warm during the coolest months.
Where the Cold Hit: La Trinidad and Surrounding Areas
La Trinidad sits at a high elevation that naturally fosters lower nighttime temperatures. On mornings around this time of year, residents and visitors often notice foggy windows, dew-laden fields, and crisp air that feels almost tropical in its sharpness for those accustomed to lower altitudes. The latest tally confirms that La Trinidad remains at the center of Benguet’s chill, but the surrounding towns have also reported cooler conditions as cold air blankets the region.
Local authorities and meteorologists emphasize that while temperatures can dip further, the 12.1°C mark is a season low specifically for this period of 2025. It’s accompanied by clear skies during the day and calm, still evenings that magnify the feel of winter-like conditions in a country where sub-freezing weather is a rarity.
What Causes the Cold Surge?
Several factors contribute to the recent cold spell in Benguet. A high-pressure system over Northern Luzon coupled with the northeast trade winds has funneled cooler air to the Cordillera region. Nighttime radiational cooling is especially effective at higher elevations, allowing temperatures to dip more quickly after sunset. Additionally, dry air and minimal cloud cover can accelerate the cooling process, leaving residents with a brisk morning and a refreshed, crisp atmosphere by midday.
Experts note that while climate variability is a global trend, localized weather in Benguet remains influenced by its mountainous terrain and altitude. As such, residents should continue to monitor local advisories for sudden changes, particularly as the Christmas season brings more visitors who may not be accustomed to the region’s temperature shifts.
Impact on Daily Life and Local Activities
For farmers, growers, and market vendors, the cold weather can affect crop health, irrigation schedules, and harvest timing. The Queen of Benguet’s horticulture, especially strawberries and other cool-climate crops, benefits from cooler nights but risks frost damage if temperatures plummet unexpectedly. Farmers’ groups are sharing tips on frost protection, row covers, and basic cold-weather practices to safeguard yields as the season progresses.
Residents are also adapting their routines. Mornings are starting later for some, while schools and offices inform commuters to prepare for chilly commutes. Small businesses, cafes, and hot beverage stalls have noted a rise in demand for warm drinks and layering apparel, transforming the local morning economy into a cozy, community-centric scene.
What to Expect Next
Forecasts suggest that the region may experience more cool-to-brisk days, with temperatures fluctuating around the 12–15°C range during the early hours of the day. While such temperatures are typical for Benguet’s winter, the persistence of the chill into late December and beyond remains a topic of interest for both residents and visitors who flock to La Trinidad’s scenic landscapes and strawberry farms during the season.
Authorities remind travelers to dress in layers, protect vulnerable individuals—such as the elderly and young children—and keep an eye on local weather advisories. A comfortable return to milder afternoons is expected as the sun climbs higher, offering the best of Benguet’s postcard-worthy scenery amid cooler air.
Conclusion
The Christmas season chill in Benguet, highlighted by La Trinidad’s 12.1°C low, serves as a reminder of the province’s enduring highland climate. As residents and visitors enjoy the festive atmosphere, they also navigate a weather pattern that brings both beauty and practical considerations. In a region where the outdoors is a daily feature—from market stalls to strawberry fields—the cold is a familiar companion that shapes routines, gear, and gatherings during this special time of year.
