Philippines: Adverse weather forecast across southern and south-central regions through at least Dec. 1

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of southern and south-central Philippines through at least Dec. 1. As of Nov. 30, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) have issued a weather advisory warning of moderate to heavy rainfall over Caraga, Davao, and Northern Mindanao regions Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy downpours is likely across the rest of Mindanao as well as Central Visayas Region and Leyte and Southern Leyte provinces. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding and landslides in parts of the affected areas.

As of Nov. 30, PAGASA has issued yellow moderate general flood advisories (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) for the following provinces:

• Agusan Del Norte, Agusan Del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao Del Norte, and Surigao Del Sur provinces in Caraga Region

• Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor provinces in Central Visayas Region

• Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Oro, Davao Del Sur, and Davao Oriental provinces in Davao Region

• Leyte and Southern Leyte provinces in Eastern Visayas Region

• Zamboanga Del Norte, Zamboanga Del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay provinces in Zamboanga Peninsula Region

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA)