Southwest Monsoon Brings Heavy Rains Across the Philippines on July 20

MANILA, Philippines — On July 20, 2025, overcast skies and significant rainfall are forecasted for the majority of the Philippines due to the southwest monsoon, locally referred to as 'habagat,' according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Heavy precipitation is expected particularly in the western sections of Luzon, Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and the western Visayas, as detailed in PAGASA’s latest weather advisory.

PAGASA weather specialist Obet Badrina emphasized that cloudy conditions with scattered showers will also affect other regions, including the rest of Luzon and parts of the Visayas, as well as the Zamboanga Peninsula and areas in Northern Mindanao and Caraga. In contrast, regions in Mindanao may only experience isolated rain showers and thunderstorms, as noted by Badrina during a weather briefing.

In light of the anticipated inclement weather, PAGASA has issued a gale warning for several coastal areas, including Ilocos Norte, the western coast of Pangasinan (specifically Bolinao, Bani, Agno, Burgos, and Dasol), Zambales, and the Lubang Islands. The agency has cautioned fishermen and small boat operators to exercise caution due to rough sea conditions.

As of the latest updates, PAGASA is not monitoring any low-pressure areas inside or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). However, Badrina indicated that conditions may be conducive for the development of a tropical cyclone within the PAR in the coming days or weeks, following the recent activity of tropical storm Crising, which has now exited the PAR.

The potential impact of the southwest monsoon is significant, as it not only brings much-needed rain for agricultural areas but also poses risks for flooding and landslides in vulnerable regions. The Philippine government and local disaster preparedness agencies are urged to remain vigilant and to activate response protocols as necessary.

This weather pattern underscores the Philippines' vulnerability to extreme weather events, a situation exacerbated by climate change, according to Dr. Maria Santos, a climatologist at the University of the Philippines. She states, 'The increased intensity and frequency of monsoon rains can lead to catastrophic flooding, particularly in urban areas where drainage systems are inadequate.'

The future outlook suggests that the Philippines may continue to experience unpredictable weather patterns, necessitating ongoing monitoring and adaptive strategies from both government agencies and communities. As the nation braces for possible adverse effects from the habagat, it remains imperative for residents to stay informed and prepared for changing weather conditions.