Philippines: Disruptions ongoing due to flooding and landslides across parts of Mindanao Island as of July 15

Disruptions due to flooding and landslides are ongoing across parts of Mindanao Island as of July 15. Heavy rainfall associated with the southwest monsoon has been impacting the region since July 11, triggering widespread flooding and landslides across parts of Mindanao. As of July 15, authorities have reported two weather-related fatalities, one in Northern Mindanao and one in Davao Region, as well as two others injured and one person missing. More than 54,000 people have been affected by the severe weather across Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Davao, Northern Mindanao, and Soccsksargen regions. Around 17,800 people have been displaced and at least 73 homes have been damaged. Dozens of roads and several bridges have been made impassable due to floodwaters and landslides.

Further adverse weather is forecast across the region over the coming days, with the heaviest rainfall likely in Caraga Region. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) is maintaining severe general flood advisories (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across parts of Davao and Northern Mindanao regions and a moderate general flood advisory over much of Caraga Region. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

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.