Southwest Monsoon Claims 12 Lives Across Philippines
The relentless southwest monsoon has tragically claimed the lives of twelve individuals nationwide, local authorities reported. The torrential rains and flooding caused by the southwest monsoon have displaced thousands, forcing families to seek refuge in evacuation centers.
Fatalities and Missing Persons by Region
As of Wednesday morning, police regional offices confirmed the following casualties: five drowned in Calabarzon, three in the Negros Island Region, and one each in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Mimaropa due to drowning. Meanwhile, two others died after being struck by fallen trees—one in Northern Mindanao and another in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
In addition to the fatalities, seven people were reported injured, including five from the Zamboanga Peninsula and two from the Cordillera Administrative Region. Authorities also recorded nine missing persons amid the heavy downpour: five in NCR, three in Western Visayas, and one in Calabarzon.
Massive Evacuations and Police Deployment
Reports indicate that approximately 144,188 individuals, or around 39,426 families, have been evacuated to 724 centers nationwide. To aid in disaster response, more than 4,300 police officers have been deployed, supported by nearly 6,400 standby personnel ready to assist.
Weather Outlook: Continued Heavy Rains Expected
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) warns that the southwest monsoon will bring persistent heavy rains through Friday, especially over western Luzon and Metro Manila. This weather pattern is compounded by two low-pressure areas and Tropical Depression Dante.
According to the latest bulletin, Tropical Depression Dante is located about 880 kilometers east of northern Luzon, with sustained winds reaching 55 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 70 kph. It is moving northwest at 25 kph, further fueling the rain over affected areas.
Communities Struggle Amid Floods
In flood-hit regions, families have taken refuge in churches and evacuation centers, often bringing along their pets. Streets in cities like Quezon City have become waterways, with residents wading through waist-deep water. Local leaders and emergency personnel continue to coordinate rescue and relief efforts.
For more news and updates on the southwest monsoon, visit Filipinokami.com.
