Yesterday evening, Metro Manila experienced continuous rains that caused flooding in different areas.

PAGASA Weather Forecaster Aldczar Aurelio explained that these are brought about by the southwest monsoon or “habagat,” typically experienced in July, August and September. Its warm and moist characteristics are sometimes enhanced by weather disturbances like the tropical cyclone.

According PAGASA weather forecaster Gener Quitlong, heavy rains over Metro Manila is due to the combined effect of the “habagat” and Tropical Storm Mario.

As of September 18, 2014, here is the rainfall data:

Ondoy vs. Habagat

Compared to the rains brought by Ondoy to Manila in 2009, which was recorded at 455 millimeters at the Quezon City Science Garden within a 24-hour period, the recent habagat has brought 268 millimeters of rain within the same time frame.

This is because the rains we are experiencing now are not a direct effect of Tropical Storm Mario, unlike before when we were hit directly by Typhoon Ondoy.

Just before you step out to jumpstart your whole-day outdoor adventure with friends, the skies suddenly release sheets of rain. Before you scream at the unfairness of it all, take heart! You can still have fun even with gloomy weather.

Nowadays, escapades are not confined only to the great outdoors. Don’t let the rain ruin your weekend by heading indoors! Here are some rain-friendly activities you can enjoy with friends and family.

Shop around.
Christmas is less than a hundred days away! Now is the time to head on to bazaars, mall sales and your favorite discount stores to score the best deals for yuletide gifts. Don’t wait until the last minute to do your Christmas shopping. When you’re in the thick of the holiday rush, you’re more likely to also rush your shopping. This means less time to mull over your choices (which may now be limited because of the competition) and you may end up spending more than you planned.

Feed your mind.
Let your brain munch on some food for thought for a change. Have a field day at the museums that pepper the metro. Brush up on local culture and history at The National Museum. Get your dose of modern art at the Vargas Museum. Take a peek at business magnate Eugenio Lopez’s private art collection at the Lopez Museum. Planning to bring along kids? Then we suggest visiting family-oriented interactive museums such as the multi-faceted Museo Pambata, and the science-themed Mind Museum and the Exploreum. Fun learning can also be had at the Manila Ocean Park, where both children and the child-at-heart can get up close and personal with our fascinating aquatic neighbors. Before going to these establishments, do check out their operating hours on their websites so you’re sure they’re open.

Indulge in some movie magic.
Going to the movies is a no-brainer when it’s raining. But why not up the ante and skip the Hollywood-themed flicks to check out films off the beaten track? September is a great month for movie buffs since they can check out Cine Europa, which features 23 films from Austria, Belguim, Netherlands and other European countries. Meanwhile, locally produced documentaries claim the spotlight in Cine Totoo, produced by independent filmmakers from all over the country.

Eat, drink, and stay dry.
There is never a shortage of eateries in the metro. Drag your friends and hole yourselves in a cozy café or restaurant and chat the rainy blues away. You can even turn it into a food trip, hopping from one nearby gastronomic establishment to the next to sample their signature specialties.

Home is where the action is.
When the winds are howling, typhoon-style and the rains show no sign of backing down, think of your safety first and stay home. Bust out those board games, attack the clutter in your cabinet, or bake some goodies. It’s up to you to make the most out of your day, regardless of the weather.

Jesy Basco is an advocate of responsible media and a weather reporter at Panahon TV, aired daily at 5:00 AM on the People’s Television (PTV). Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

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