EXPLAINER: What does Habagat Season mean and how can we prepare for it?

The Southwest Monsoon, locally known as Habagat, has officially begun in the Philippines. The state weather bureau, PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration), confirmed the season’s onset on May 30, 2026.

The arrival of the Habagat serves as a primary precursor signaling the start of the country’s rainy season. Recent climate assessments show that these monsoon winds have already begun prevailing over the western portion of the archipelago.

In an official statement released on May 30, 2026, PAGASA detailed the current atmospheric conditions: “Recent analyses over the past days have shown the presence of southwesterly winds over the western section of the country, and may continue due to the recent development of a Tropical Cyclone over the Philippine Sea.”

Habagat refers to warm and humid winds originating from the southwest ocean. As these winds blow across the sea toward the country, they collect significant amounts of moisture. This high moisture content creates unstable atmospheric conditions, leading to more frequent rainfall and thunderstorms. The western sections of the Philippines are typically the most affected by these heavy, moisture-driven rains during this period.

Practical Safety Tips for the Habagat Season

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) recommends practicing everyday preparedness to avoid common rainy season disruptions:

• Monitor Weather Bulletins: Track thunderstorm advisories and heavy rainfall warnings via the official PAGASA Facebook Page or Twitter feed.
• Pack an Emergency Go-Bag: Keep a waterproof bag ready with three days’ worth of non-perishable food, bottled water, essential medicines, flashlights, and a power bank.
• Avoid Wading in Floodwaters: Refuse to walk or drive through floods to prevent exposure to open manholes, hidden debris, and waterborne diseases like Leptospirosis.
• Secure Home Electricity: If heavy rain floods your local street or home, proactively switch off your main circuit breaker to avoid electrical short circuits.
• Maintain Vehicle Readiness: Inspect your car or motorcycle's tires, brakes, and wipers regularly, and drive at a reduced speed during downpours to prevent hydroplaning.
• Coordinate Evacuation Routes: Know the designated evacuation center in your local barangay if your neighborhood is prone to rapid flash floods or landslides. —RF, GMA News