Manila sits directly in the path of the Western Pacific typhoon belt, one of the most active tropical cyclone regions on Earth, and averages around 2,000 mm (about 79 inches) of rain a year, with the wet season from June through November bringing both the Southwest Monsoon and a steady procession of typhoons. Several dozen tropical systems affect the Philippines in a typical year, and even storms that don’t make a direct hit can enhance monsoon rains enough to cause serious flooding across the low-lying metro area. Because Manila Bay and the Pasig River both drain through the city, heavy rain combined with a typhoon’s storm surge can compound flooding risk significantly, as has happened repeatedly with major storms in recent decades. Given how quickly a tropical system can intensify or shift track in this region, radar imagery is an essential real-time tool alongside official typhoon bulletins. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, PAGASA, operates the national weather radar network.
Learn more: Hurricane Season Radar Guide · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Manila right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Manila, Metro Manila in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Manila, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Manila rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Manila?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Metro Manila are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Manila or pass by.
Is this Manila rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.