Philippines: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across central regions as of Nov. 27 /update 2

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of the central Philippines as of Nov. 27. Heavy rainfall has been ongoing across the region since Nov. 14 due to the shear line and a low-pressure area. Areas affected by flooding include parts of Bicol, Calabarzon, Caraga, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Western Visayas regions. Authorities have reported two fatalities in Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions. More than 1.1 million people have been affected and more than 81,000 displaced across the affected regions. Around 50 roads and three bridges are impassable due to floodwaters and around 270 houses have been damaged. Power outages are ongoing in 24 municipalities in Eastern Visayas Region as of Nov. 27; water supply interruptions and communication outages are also ongoing in parts of the region. Schools and businesses have been closed across many parts of the affected area due to the flooding. Provincewide states of calamity have been declared in Eastern Samar and Northern Samar provinces in Eastern Visayas Region.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) has forecast further isolated showers and thunderstorms across the region over the coming days. Additional downpours may exacerbate the situation and hamper ongoing response and recovery operations.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 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.

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.