Philippines: Adverse weather forecast to continue across most of the country through at least Dec. 27 /update 3

Severe weather is forecast across parts of most of the Philippines through at least Dec. 27. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. As of early Dec. 24, PAGASA has issued a weather advisory for heavy rainfall over parts of the region, with heavy-to-intense rainfall totals of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) forecast across Quezon, Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Northern Samar provinces Dec. 24, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Quezon, and Aurora provinces Dec. 25, and Aurora and Quezon provinces Dec. 26. Moderate-to-heavy rainfall totals of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are forecast across other parts of the Philippines Dec. 24-26. Heavy rainfall is likely to persist through at least Dec. 27.

PAGASA has issued the following flood advisories across the country as of early Dec. 24:

• Extreme general flood advisories (the second highest level on a four-tier scale): Across Bicol, Davao, and Mimaropa regions.

• Severe general flood advisories: Calabarzon and Eastern Visayas regions.

• Moderate general flood advisories: Caraga and Zamboanga Peninsula regions.

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

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 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 rain 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 regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with 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.