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

In a press release issued Monday, October 5, PAGASA said a gradual shift in the country’s prevailing weather pattern has been observed in recent days, including the strengthening of a high-pressure system over East Asia and the southward migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

PAGASA also noted a significant weakening of winds and a decrease in rainfall associated with the Southwest Monsoon.

The weather bureau said these conditions are expected to persist in the coming days, marking the end of the rainy season over the western sections of Luzon and Visayas.