The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday officially declared the start of the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat, signaling the approach of the country’s rainy season.

In an advisory, PAGASA said recent weather analyses showed the presence of southwesterly winds affecting the western section of the country, a condition enhanced by the recent development of a tropical cyclone over the Philippine Sea.

According to the state weather bureau, the intrusion of westerly winds and prevailing meteorological conditions indicate the onset of Habagat, one of the key precursors to the rainy season.

As the Southwest Monsoon becomes more dominant, occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms are expected, particularly over the western parts of the country. PAGASA said these conditions could lead to the official onset of the rainy season in the coming days.

The agency, however, noted that monsoon breaks, or periods of little to no rainfall lasting several days or weeks, may still occur.

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