PAGASA Declares End of Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) — Rainy Season Over, Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) Expected in Late October

📌 On Monday, October 5, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced the official end of this year's Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) season. This marks the end of the rainy season in the western parts of Luzon and Visayas, with the cool and dry Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) expected to begin in late October following a transition period.

■ What Changes
· This year's Habagat started on May 30 and ended in early October.
· PAGASA cited the strengthening of the East Asian high-pressure area, the southward movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and a noticeable weakening of Southwest Monsoon winds and rains as the basis for the declaration, noting that this weather pattern will persist for the time being.
· The country is now in a transition period moving toward the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan). The onset of Amihan is reported to be in late October (The Manila Times) or by the end of this month (GMA News).

■ Tips for Residents and Travelers
· While monsoon rains in western Luzon and Visayas will decrease, the end of the rainy season does not mean the end of typhoons. PAGASA advised the public to continue monitoring weather updates.
· The Amihan season generally brings cooler and drier weather, so check the latest forecasts when planning your travel itineraries.

■ Sources
GMA News (10/5), The Manila Times (10/6)