Astrologizing the weather

MANILA, Philippines – I believe that astrologers have much to offer Filipinos, especially in weather forecasting. With astro-meteorology, the public has another tool to use in order to know how to deal with changing weather conditions.

Scientists as astro-meteorologists

Astro-meteorology is the branch of natural astrology that deals with forecasting rains or typhoons. This practice is not new; almost every astrologer in the medieval times knew astro-meteorology. Astrological texts from as early as 9th century Baghdad to 18th century England aren’t complete without a chapter on weather forecasting.

Natural processes like evaporation or condensation have an astrological correlation. Matter being hot or cold, wet or dry, is associated with the effects of particular planets. Astro-meteorology was approached in a very systematic way. Astrology — which was taught in medieval European universities — was, after all, considered part of what was considered scientia during those times.

Two eminent scientists, Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler, paved the way for great advances in astronomy in their quest for precision in observation. They also practiced astrology. Both worked for Rudolph II, the Holy Roman Emperor, and were given the title Imperial Mathematicus. What is not emphasized in history is that among their tasks was to provide weather forecasts — they used astro-meteorology.

Kepler, who studied the weather for 3 decades, laid down the principles that he employed in the book, “Concerning the More Certain Fundamentals of Astrology.”

Partly triggered by Ondoy, I have been studying and applying Kepler’s work to the Philippine setting. 

A scientist who respects astrology isn’t really extraordinary. Dr. Percy Seymour, a British astrophysicist, formulated a scientific theory of astrology. In the book, “Astrology: The Evidence of Science,” he explains that cosmic magnetism is the key in explaining astrology.

Astro-meteorology works!

For 2011, I determined dates I thought it will rain. It did not only rain — there were typhoons. The most accurate so far was pinpointing July 14, October 1 and December 17 as critical dates. Typhoons Hanna, Quiel and Sendong unleashed their fury within one day of those dates.

Don’t you ever wonder why the “general” description for Capricorns or Aquarians is cold while those born with the sign Aries are considered warm and energetic? The answer actually lies in the climate.

At the peak of summer in the Philippines (from late March to April), the sun is in Aries. The sun, the source of heat in the Solar System, is “exalted” or strengthened in Aries. 

When the sun enters Capricorn before Christmas, colder winds start blowing; making January — a Capricorn-Aquarius period — the coldest month. Both signs are ruled by Saturn.

In medieval astrology, Saturn is the planet of coldness. You won’t find it illogical if you realize that Saturn is the farthest visible planet from the source of heat.  Saturn figures prominently in astrological charts during typhoons. Astrologers look at the stars but the theory behind astrology is based on nature and is very much grounded.

Typhoon forecast for the Philippines

The true test of a science is its ability to predict. With this mind, I am presenting a typhoon forecast in order to show that astrology is reliable. My goal is present a way towards fusion between astro-meteorology and meteorology. Kepler said, “Nature has given us astrology as an adjunct and ally to astronomy.” Real astrology is not an enemy of science.

A study of the astro-meteorological factors made me conclude that at least 6 major typhoons are to hit country between July and November. The dates to watch are the following: July 15 and October 25 (6 to 7-day margin; Ferdie hit the Philippines on July 21); August 15, September 3, October 5 and November 27 (2 to 4-day margin).

The August 15 factor is noteworthy; it was present when a large part of Asia was flooded in July 2010.

The September 3 factor is the strongest. The same configuration was present when Hanna and Sendong devastated the archipelago in 2011.

The October 5 factor is similar to that of Ondoy.  

If this system will work year after year, PAGASA and LGU’s may find this kind of information useful at least in determining in advance when strong typhoons are likely. They may raise their alertness, increase staff, seek assistance or coordinate with other agencies ahead of time since meteorological instruments project the same conclusion. Water from dams may be managed better so as not to aggravate floods resulting from heavy rainfall.

The public will benefit the most. From simply bringing an umbrella, postponing laundry or cancelling flights, those who will heed astro-meteorological advice will have another tool in making plans, to achieve goals or even save lives. – Rappler.com

 

(Resti H. Santiago has been a professional astrologer since 1998. He has provided astrological content to publications such as Manila Times, MyAyala.com, FemaleNetwork.com and overseas-based Philippine Village magazine and Hello Philippines magazines.)