The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has declared the onset of the rainy season in the country on Wednesday, May 18.
In a statement, the weather bureau said the “presence of a frontal system and the occurrence of severe thunderstorms have brought widespread rains during the last five days in areas under Type I climate and other parts of the country.”
“Southwesterly windflow was also observed during the past few days. This satisfies the criteria of the start of the rainy season over the western sections of Luzon and Visayas,” PAGASA said.
Areas under Type 1 climate experience dry season from November to April and wet for the rest of the year, with maximum rain period from June to September.
The National Capital Region and the western sections of the country will also be affected by intermittent rains associated with southwest monsoon or “habagat.”
“However, breaks in rainfall events (also known as monsoon breaks), which can last for several days or weeks may still occur,” PAGASA said, adding that “the ongoing La Niña may still affect some parts of the country, which may increase the likelihood of above normal rainfall conditions in the coming months.” AG – gb
