PAGASA declares start of rainy season

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has officially declared the onset of the rainy season in the country. The declaration comes after widespread rains have drenched the western sections of Luzon and Visayas in the past few days, which marks the start of the rainy season particularly over the Climate Type I areas.

Scattered thunderstorms, the passage of Super Typhoon (STY) “BETTY,” and the effects of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) were cited by PAGASA as the main catalysts for the start of this weather transition. However, the agency also warned of possible monsoon breaks or intervals of dry spells that could last several days or even weeks.

 

In their press release, PAGASA further noted a possible transition from ENSO-neutral to El Niño in the coming months. This shift, with a higher chance of El Niño persisting until the first quarter of 2024, raises the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions which could potentially result in dry spells and droughts in some areas of the country.

Despite this, PAGASA pointed out that an enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) season could also be expected. This may result in above-normal rainfall conditions over the western part of the country, further influencing the weather landscape.

In light of these weather projections, PAGASA advises the public and all concerned agencies to take necessary precautionary measures against the potential impacts of the rainy season. As the national meteorological service, PAGASA reassures that it will continue to monitor the country’s weather and climate situation closely, ensuring that the public remains informed and prepared.