DSWD on Full Alert Amid Southwest Monsoon and Low-Pressure Area
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has placed all its disaster response teams on full alert due to the ongoing southwest monsoon and a low-pressure area (LPA) within the Philippine boundary. Officials are closely monitoring the situation to ensure immediate assistance where needed.
“We are ensuring that even on government work suspension, our frontline disaster response personnel across the country are on standby and closely monitoring the situation everywhere. This is crucial so we can send help immediately where it is much-needed,” DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in a statement Monday. This readiness highlights the importance of swift action during the southwest monsoon and low-pressure area conditions.
Current Weather Conditions and Forecast
According to the latest data from the state weather bureau at 2 p.m., the LPA was located approximately 730 kilometers northeast of Virac, Catanduanes. It currently holds a low probability of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, but authorities remain vigilant.
Local leaders reported that several provinces, including Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, and Antique, are forecasted to experience 50 to 100 millimeters of rainfall due to the combined effects of the southwest monsoon and the LPA. Community members are advised to stay alert for possible flooding or landslides in vulnerable areas.
Preparedness Measures and Relief Resources
In preparation for potential emergencies, over two million boxes of family food packs are pre-positioned in DSWD warehouses nationwide. Additionally, more than 16,000 ready-to-eat food (RTEF) boxes are available to support stranded passengers at ports affected by adverse weather.
Furthermore, officials reported having 313,197 non-food items (NFIs) such as blankets, family kits, hygiene kits, kitchen kits, and modular tents ready for distribution. These will support individuals who may be required to seek temporary shelter in evacuation centers during the southwest monsoon and low-pressure area events.
Community Safety and Ongoing Monitoring
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of community preparedness and prompt reporting of any emergencies. The DSWD and weather agencies are coordinating closely to provide timely updates and assistance to affected populations.
Residents in the affected regions are urged to heed local warnings and prepare their households accordingly. The combined challenge of the southwest monsoon and low-pressure area demands heightened vigilance and cooperation from all sectors.
For more news and updates on southwest monsoon and low-pressure area, visit Filipinokami.com.
