The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has officially declared the end of the Southwest Monsoon or habagat season in the country.

In a press release issued on Thursday, Oct. 12, PAGASA said its analyses had shown that habagat had significantly weakened over the past few days.

"Moreover the strengthening of the high-pressure system over East Asia has led to a gradual change in the weather patterns. With these developments, the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) season is now officially over," it added.

The state weather bureau said the country is gradually transitioning to Northeast Monsoon (NE) or amihan season.

El Niño

According to PAGASA, some areas in the country may experience dry spells and droughts as effect of an increased likelihood of below-normal conditions during the last quarter of 2023 up to the first quarter of 2024.

"This may adversely affect the different climate-sensitive sectors such as water resources, agriculture, energy, health, public safety, and other key sectors in the country," it said.