PAGASA has officially declared the start of the Habagat or southwest monsoon season in the Philippines.
In an advisory on May 30, PAGASA said the announcement was due to persistent low-level southwesterly winds and the presence of a frontal system, along with the weakening of the easterlies. The country may expect occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms, especially in the western areas. Monsoon breaks may also occur.
PAGASA said the start of Habagat could lead to the potential onset of the rainy season in the next two weeks. In a weather forecast on May 29, PAGASA weather expert Benison Estareja said the initial phase began with the return of the southwesterly windflow affecting some regions. “PAGASA will continue to monitor the weather situation of the country. The public and all concerned agencies are advised to take precautionary measures against the adverse impacts of the Habagat such as floods and rain-induced landslides,” the advisory read.
In its May 30 forecast, PAGASA said multiple weather systems may bring rains across different areas. The frontal system may bring scattered rain and thunderstorms in Batanes. The southwesterly windflow will affect Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, the rest of Cagayan Valley, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Occidental Mindoro. The rest of the country may experience isolated thunderstorms due to localized activity.
PAGASA also warned of possible flash floods and landslides in affected areas. Extreme Northern Luzon may experience moderate winds and coastal conditions. The rest of the country will have light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas. Local governments are urged to prepare for possible hazards.
The southwest monsoon season typically lasts until the early part of the last quarter of the year. PAGASA will continue issuing updates as conditions develop. Rainfall patterns are expected to shift in the coming weeks. Residents are advised to monitor official weather bulletins.