Habagat Retreats to Northern Luzon’s Western Fringe
The southwest monsoon, or habagat, has lost its seasonal grip on the Philippine archipelago. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) confirmed on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, that the system has weakened significantly, pulling back to a narrow corridor along the western section of Northern Luzon.
This retreat follows the departure of LPA Josie, which exited the Philippine area of responsibility at 2 a.m. Wednesday. The bureau confirmed that Josie has effectively downgraded, ceasing all direct influence on the country.
Localized Storms Persist Despite Clearing Skies
The transition away from the monsoon does not mean an immediate return to clear weather. Pagasa warns that residents across the country should brace for localized disruptions. Even as the broader system recedes, Metro Manila and other regions face a forecast of partly cloudy to cloudy skies. Dominguez noted that these conditions remain primed for isolated rain showers and localized thunderstorms, with the highest probability occurring during the afternoon and evening hours.
Distant Low-Pressure System Stalls Near Hong Kong
Regional weather remains anchored by a low-pressure area currently tracked 1,165 kilometers west-northwest of Extreme Luzon. Pagasa analysts have ruled out the likelihood of this system redeveloping into a tropical depression.
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