May to October is the monsoon season in the Philippines when it is hot and wet, though the rain is by no means constant, certainly not enough to affect travel plans. Northern areas are usually worse affected, and it gets progressively drier as you head further south. In the capital Manila, the most rain falls in September (about 330 mm), but it varies as the Philippines is spread over a large geographical area of 7,000 islands and islets. Temperatures at this time regularly top over 32 °C (89.5 °F). Cebu is the driest and coolest area at this time, and many travel here to take advantage of the more temperate weather. Typhoon season is at its height between August and October, and those that make landfall can be severe, so it is worth checking ahead to see where is worst affected.