Severe Tropical Storm Wipha Floods Thousands Early

Severe Tropical Storm Wipha Floods Thousands Early

Severe Tropical Storm Wipha, locally known as Crising, has displaced thousands and flooded streets across Metro Manila and other regions. The recent weather disturbance, combined with the southwest monsoon, affected over 500,000 people nationwide, local leaders noted.

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s 6 a.m. report on Sunday, 523,686 individuals or 151,012 families in 1,134 barangays across multiple regions experienced the brunt of the storm and monsoon rains. These areas include the National Capital Region, Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Caraga, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Evacuations and Relief Efforts Underway

Of those affected, 33,608 individuals or 9,621 families are currently sheltered in evacuation centers. Meanwhile, 99,834 people or 22,511 families are receiving aid while staying outside these centers. To assist these communities, the government has distributed over 37 million pesos in relief goods and assistance, sources said.

Impact on Metro Manila and Tourist Areas

In Metro Manila, heavy rains caused by Wipha submerged parts of Quezon City, including Banawe Street, forcing families to seek refuge at evacuation sites such as Amoranto Stadium. At the same time, the storm dampened the vacation atmosphere on popular tourist destinations like Boracay Island, local authorities reported.

Storm Exit and Ongoing Rainfall

The state weather bureau confirmed that Crising left the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday afternoon. Nevertheless, the southwest monsoon continues to bring widespread rains across many parts of the country, prolonging flood risks and challenges for affected communities.

Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant and monitor weather updates as relief operations continue. For more news and updates on Severe Tropical Storm Wipha, visit Filipinokami.com.