Could the Philippines Survive Heavy Rains and Severe Flooding Amid a Series of Storms?
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Synopsis
As the Philippines reels from an unprecedented series of storms, experts warn of escalating risks of flooding and landslides. With the death toll rising and millions affected, can the nation withstand this climatic onslaught? Discover the unfolding situation and its implications for the country’s future.
Key Takeaways
- Over 2.7 million people displaced due to flooding.
- At least 12 fatalities reported from the storms.
- Significant agricultural damage estimated at 366.38 million pesos.
- Infrastructure losses amount to 3.77 billion pesos.
- Flood warnings are active across affected regions.
Manila, July 24 (NationPress) A deluge of rain threatens to unleash even more devastating floods and landslides across the Philippines on Thursday, as the region grapples with a succession of three tropical storms within days. This calamity has already claimed the lives of up to 12 individuals and displaced more than 2.7 million people.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that approximately 765,869 families, totaling around 2,733,646 people, have been impacted nationwide by flooding and landslides caused by the unrelenting rain from Tropical Storm Wipha and the intensified southwest monsoon.
According to the agency, 12 lives have been lost, with eight individuals still unaccounted for following the onslaught of Wipha and the monsoon rains. Authorities anticipate that the death toll may continue to rise as they validate reports of fatalities from various regions.
The damage inflicted by Wipha and the monsoon has been substantial. Agricultural losses are estimated at 366.38 million pesos (approximately $6.5 million), affecting vital crops such as rice, corn, high-value crops, fisheries, and livestock, thereby impacting countless farmers and fishermen.
Infrastructure has also suffered, with damages totaling 3.77 billion pesos (around $66.5 million).
Despite Wipha's exit from the Philippines on Saturday, the southwest monsoon remains active due to two tropical storms, Francisco and Co-May, which are currently battering the region.
The Philippine weather bureau, PAGASA, indicated on Thursday that Tropical Storm Co-May is expected to shift southeast before turning north-northeast, potentially affecting Pangasinan province in the afternoon and making landfall over the Ilocos Region by Thursday night or early Friday.
There is a possibility that Co-May may strengthen into a typhoon before its landfall, the bureau noted.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Francisco is moving west-northwest and is predicted to exit the Philippines by Thursday afternoon or evening.
The bureau has further cautioned that the intensified monsoon could lead to floods, landslides, and other weather-related dangers in affected areas.
Flood alerts are currently in place across Metro Manila and surrounding provinces.
Co-May marks the fifth tropical cyclone to impact the Philippines this year.
Xinhua news agency has reported that an average of 20 typhoons strike the Philippines annually.
This archipelago is vulnerable to tropical cyclones, which bring heavy rains, flooding, and strong winds, resulting in casualties and destruction of crops and properties.
Point of View
I stand with the nation in this time of crisis. The continuous struggle against natural disasters highlights the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and resilience. Our commitment to delivering accurate information remains unwavering, as we aim to keep the public informed and safe during these challenging times.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in the Philippines regarding the storms?
The Philippines is currently facing severe flooding and landslides due to a series of tropical storms. As of now, there are reports of 12 fatalities and over 2.7 million people displaced.
How many tropical storms have affected the Philippines recently?
The country has been impacted by three tropical storms in a very short period, with Co-May being the latest.
What are the damages reported so far?
The agricultural damage is estimated at around 366.38 million pesos, while infrastructure losses are approximately 3.77 billion pesos.
What precautions are being taken?
Flood warnings are in effect across Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
How often do typhoons hit the Philippines?
On average, the Philippines experiences about 20 typhoons each year, making it highly susceptible to these natural disasters.
