As Tropical Storm Crising continues to sweep across Luzon and the Visayas, its torrential rains, combined with the effects of the southwest monsoon, are putting communities across several provinces on high alert. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued advisories early Friday, warning of dangerous rainfall levels and the potential for severe flooding and landslides.
Widespread Rainfall and Escalating Threats
At the core of the current situation is the sheer volume of rain expected to fall over the next few days. In northern Luzon, including Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte, over 200 millimeters of rainfall are projected—an amount that could quickly overwhelm drainage systems and riverbanks. Mid-range rainfall, estimated at 100 to 200 millimeters, is also forecasted for areas such as Batanes, Ilocos Sur, Benguet, Kalinga, and various parts of the Bicol Region.
Additional rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters will affect provinces like Pangasinan, Nueva Vizcaya, Albay, and Sorsogon, where saturated ground from previous downpours already heightens vulnerability. In the Visayas and parts of southern Luzon, including Palawan, Antique, and Negros Occidental, both monsoon rains and storm-induced downpours are compounding the hazard.
Key Dangers Faced by Affected Communities
The foremost danger in this situation is the risk of flash floods, particularly in low-lying urban areas, coastal communities, and river-adjacent settlements. Rapid water accumulation can displace families with little warning, endanger lives, and destroy homes and infrastructure.
Landslides are another serious concern, especially in mountainous or elevated areas such as those in the Cordilleras and parts of the Bicol and Northern Luzon regions. Prolonged or intense rainfall weakens soil structures, making them prone to sudden collapse.
The compounded effect of already saturated ground and forecasted rainfall may also overwhelm flood control systems, increasing the risk of power outages, transportation disruptions, and limited access to emergency services.
How Residents Can Stay Safe and Prepared
If you are in one of the affected or nearby areas, preparedness and vigilance are essential. Here are immediate steps residents can take:
- Monitor official updates from PAGASA and local government units (LGUs) for accurate information. Stay tuned to weather bulletins through radio, TV, or social media from trusted sources.
- Prepare emergency go-bags that include food, water, clothing, flashlights, medicine, and important documents. Ensure that every family member knows where it is stored.
- Charge all essential devices in case of power outages.
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, especially near rivers, slopes, or flood-prone streets.
- Evacuate early if local officials issue an evacuation order or if your area is identified as high risk. Do not wait for the waters to rise or for conditions to worsen.
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges, as the depth and currents of the water can be deceptive and dangerous.
Strengthening Community Preparedness
As rainfall continues in the coming days, the ability of communities to respond quickly and collectively will determine the impact of Crising’s wrath. Local officials and barangay disaster response teams are urged to coordinate closely with PAGASA and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to ensure timely alerts and evacuations.While natural hazards like typhoons are unavoidable, timely action, accurate information, and community readiness can make the difference between disaster and survival.
