Philippines: Flooding ongoing across most of the country as of Jan. 20. Further adverse weather forecast over central Philippines /update 6

Event

Flooding and associated disruptions are ongoing across most of the Philippines as of Jan. 20. Further adverse weather is forecast over central Philippines. Heavy rainfall since Jan. 12 resulted in flash flooding and landslides that killed at least 33 people across the country. At least seven people remain missing; search and rescue operations are ongoing. As of early Jan. 20, more than 264,000 people remain displaced, with at least 526 structures destroyed and another 1,135 structures damaged.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) has issued a weather advisory warning of moderate to heavy rain over Albay, Catanduanes, and Sorsogon provinces. Light to moderate rain is forecast over the rest of the Bicol Region and Marinduque, Northern Samar, and Quezon provinces. As of Jan. 20, PAGASA has issued the following flood advisories across the Philippines:

• Extreme general flood advisories (the second highest level on a four-tier scale): Bicol Region.

• Moderate general flood advisories: Calabarzon Region.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. Heavy rainfall Dec. 25-Jan. 11 resulted in flash flooding that killed at least 52 people across central and southern Philippines. At least 1,111 structures were destroyed.

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)