The Southwest Monsoon, known locally as " Habagat,” has begun in the Philippines, the state weather bureau announced on Friday, May 30.

“With the weakening of the Easterlies, these developments indicate the beginning of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) in the Philippines—one of the precursors of the onset of the rainy season,” the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in a statement.

According to PAGASA’s weather analysis, low-level southwesterly wind has persisted over western Luzon, and the Frontal System (the boundary between two air masses), over the extreme Northern Luzon.

Occasional to frequent rains and thunderstorms, especially over the western portion of the country, are expected as the Habagat grows more dominant, possibly leading to the start of the rainy season within the next two weeks. Monsoon breaks may occur.