What is the Southwest Monsoon in the Philippines?

The Southwest Monsoon, locally known as Habagat, is a weather phenomenon characterized by prevailing southwesterly winds that bring significant rainfall, particularly affecting the western regions of the Philippines.

How does the Southwest Monsoon affect the weather in Baguio City?

During the Southwest Monsoon, Baguio City can expect occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms, as the monsoon typically influences weather patterns across the western sections of the Philippines.

When is the rainy season expected to begin in the Philippines?

The rainy season in the Philippines is expected to begin soon after the declaration of the Southwest Monsoon by PAGASA, which typically occurs around June to September.

Baguio Weather Today Climate and Weather

PAGASA Declares Start of Southwest Monsoon, Says Rainy Season May Begin Soon

May 30, 202675 views0

UPDATE June 3, 2026 10:53 AM:

The Southwest Monsoon, locally known as Habagat, has started, according to PAGASA. The weather bureau said the monsoon may bring occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms, especially over the western sections of the country.

PAGASA has announced the start of the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat, following recent weather analyses showing southwesterly winds affecting the western section of the Philippines.

In a press release issued on May 30, 2026, the state weather bureau said these southwesterly winds may continue due to the recent development of a tropical cyclone over the Philippine Sea.

According to PAGASA, the intrusion of westerly winds and the progression of the country’s general meteorological pattern suggest the start of the Habagat, which is considered one of the precursors of the onset of the rainy season.

“As the Habagat becomes a more dominant weather system, occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms are expected, particularly over the western sections of the country,” PAGASA said.

The weather bureau added that these conditions may lead to the possible onset of the rainy season in the coming days.

However, PAGASA also reminded the public that rain may not be continuous every day. There may still be rain breaks lasting for a few days or even weeks. These are known as monsoon breaks.

The Southwest Monsoon usually brings rains over parts of the country, especially areas facing the West Philippine Sea. During this period, communities may experience cloudy skies, thunderstorms, and occasional heavy rains, depending on the strength of the monsoon and the presence of other weather systems.

PAGASA advised the public and concerned agencies to take precautionary measures against the possible impacts of Habagat and other weather and climate events.

The agency said it will continue to monitor the country’s weather and climate situation.

For more information, see our complete guide on Typhoon Uwan Now Over La Union; Benguet still under Signal No. 4.