Rainy season likely to start in 1st half of June — PAGASA

While rain showers have been observed in some areas the past few days, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the onset of the rainy season may happen during the first half of June.

PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja on Monday, May 13, said afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms have been prevalent, signaling the imminent arrival of the rainy season in the coming weeks.

Based on PAGASA'S climatological records, he said the rainy season is likely to commence within the first two weeks of June.

However, Estareja noted that the prevailing weather system remains the easterlies or warm air from the Pacific Ocean.

He explained that the prevalence of southwesterly wind flow is one of the indicators that the rainy season is approaching.

In response to the potential delay in the start of the rainy season due to the ongoing effects of a "weak" El Niño phenomenon, Estareja said, “We have considered it, but the El Niño is already weakening and could end next month.”

The rainy season in the Philippines typically begins "between the end of May and the first half of June."

In 2023, the rainy season began on June 2.

Estareja also noted that despite rain showers and thunderstorms, warm and humid weather may persist in the coming days.

He added that many places will continue to experience dangerous heat index levels this week, but the number of areas will gradually decrease starting next week.