Since 13 February 2023, the Philippines has been experiencing heavy rainfall brought by a low-pressure area, resulting in severe flooding and landslides in various provinces. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has reported over 30,000 people displaced and two fatalities as of 21 February 2023. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the disaster, including its impact, response, and future implications.

Impact:

The NDRRMC reported over 300 incidents of flooding and over 30 landslides across 22 provinces in 8 regions since 13 February. Most of the incidents occurred in the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Zamboanga Del Norte, Davao Oriental, South Cotabato, Cotabato, Agusan Del Sur, Agusan Del Norte, and Butuan City. The heavy rains have affected over 90,000 people, with more than 32,000 people displaced. The provinces of Butuan City, Davao Oriental Province, and Agusan Del Sur were the most affected, with 20,687, 28,278, and 21,037 people respectively.

The disaster has also caused damage to property, with 118 homes reported to be damaged, and 20 destroyed. The floodwaters claimed the lives of two people, one in Siayan in Zamboanga Del Norte and the other in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

The heavy rainfall has been attributed to two weather events. In a 24-hour period to 14 February, 242 mm of rain fell in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. On 18 February, 241 mm of rain fell in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Conclusion :

The heavy rainfall and resulting floods and landslides in the Philippines have caused significant damage and displaced thousands of people. The response efforts by the local disaster authorities and the NDRRMC have been crucial in mitigating the impacts of the disaster. The government needs to focus on long-term strategies to mitigate the impacts of natural hazards and improve the resilience of the affected communities.