MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday officially declared the onset of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan), marking the transition to cooler and drier conditions across the country.

In a statement, PAGASA said recent observations showed the strengthening of a high-pressure area over East Asia, which triggered northeasterly winds over Extreme Northern Luzon. The agency also noted rising atmospheric pressure and cooling temperatures, signaling the start of the Amihan season.

“Forecasts indicate successive surges of the monsoon over the next two weeks that may cause rough sea conditions over the seaboards of Northern Luzon,” PAGASA said.

The Amihan is expected to dominate most parts of the country, bringing cool and dry air, occasional cold temperature surges, and rough sea conditions, particularly in northern coastal areas. The season may also bring shear line formations, which can trigger localized rain showers and thunderstorms.

PAGASA said it will continue monitoring weather and climate conditions and advised the public and concerned agencies to stay updated through official advisories.