THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) is studying the possibility of an early declaration of the rainy or wet season this year.

Pagasa Administrator Nathaniel Servando told The Manila Times via Viber on Thursday that the afternoon or evening rains in some parts of the country were caused by thunderstorms.

"These are signs that the rainy season is fast approaching," Servando said.

He said the wet season could start anytime between the third week of May and the second week of June.

Servando also said the country is experiencing ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation)-neutral conditions, which means neither El Niño nor La Niña is present.

With around 10 to 19 storms expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year, he said strong typhoons are likely.

"In the meantime, we would be experiencing more rains taking place in May this year as compared with the same month in 2024," he said.

By June until September, near normal rainfall is expected in most parts of the country, Servando said.

Moderate to heavy rains could occur starting October, Servando said.