The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has declared the start of the rainy season in the country, marking the latest onset since 2020. The announcement comes as the monsoon transition moves into a period expected to bring more frequent and intense rainfall across affected areas.
According to PAGASA’s declaration, the country is entering the rainy season phase that typically increases the likelihood of thunderstorms, flooding risks in low-lying and disaster-prone areas, and weather disruptions in daily life. While the start of the season is officially confirmed, PAGASA emphasized that monsoon breaks—temporary pauses or reductions in rainfall—can still occur. This means that even after the rainy season begins, there may be intermittent dry spells or less active weather before rainfall strengthens again.
At the same time, PAGASA highlighted the presence of an enhanced southwest monsoon (Habagat) that is likely to develop and affect specific regions. The agency pointed to the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas as areas where enhanced Habagat conditions are most likely during the developing period referenced in the announcement.
The timing and potential intensity of seasonal weather patterns are also tied to broader atmospheric and ocean conditions, including the development phase of El Niño-related influences (as referenced in the report). Such large-scale climate factors can affect rainfall distribution, wind patterns, and the strength or behavior of the monsoon. As a result, PAGASA’s statement indicates that while the rainy season is now underway, the actual day-to-day weather may vary as the monsoon evolves and as temporary breaks come and go.
For the public, the declaration serves as a warning to remain prepared for heavier rains that can arrive at short notice, especially during active monsoon intervals. Communities in areas historically prone to flooding, landslides, and storm-related hazards are likely to face increased exposure once rainfall becomes more sustained. Local governments and residents are generally expected to review preparedness measures such as ensuring drainage systems are clear, monitoring river levels, and following advisories issued by relevant disaster risk and weather agencies.
The mention of monsoon breaks is important because it underscores that preparedness should not be based solely on the start date of the rainy season. Even when rains ease briefly, conditions can quickly shift back to more active rainfall patterns, particularly when the enhanced Habagat strengthens. This can lead to renewed risk of flooding and other weather-related disruptions.
Meanwhile, the likely strengthening or enhanced impact of Habagat in western Luzon and the Visayas suggests that residents in these regions should pay close attention to forecasts and bulletins. Rainfall patterns in the Philippines are often strongly influenced by winds arriving from the southwest, which can bring moisture-laden air and support storm development when combined with atmospheric instability.
Overall, PAGASA’s declaration reflects a transition into a more rainfall-prone period for the nation. The key points emphasized in the announcement include (1) the rainy season’s start is confirmed and represents the latest onset since 2020, (2) monsoon breaks remain possible even after the season begins, and (3) enhanced Habagat conditions are likely to emerge, especially in the western portions of Luzon and the Visayas, as broader climate influences continue to develop.
As the season progresses, PAGASA is expected to continue updating the public with weather forecasts and warnings based on evolving monsoon activity, regional rainfall trends, and any relevant climate developments that may shape conditions in the coming days and weeks. Source: mateyo.
mateyo: BREAKING: @dost_pagasa declares the start of the rainy season in the country. This is the latest start of the rainy season since 2020. ⛈️ Monsoon breaks may still occur and the enhanced Habagat in the western sections of Luzon and Visayas is LIKELY during the developing “El. #breaking
— @matteyowwwwww May 1, 2026
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