FLOOD
The overflow of water in low-lying areas. This happens when a large amount of rainwater accumulates faster than it can evaporate or subside.
More InformationCAUSES OF FLOODING
1. Heavy rainfall lasting for several days.
2. Accumulation of sediments at the riverbed, reducing its capacity.
3. Rising sea levels.
4. Overflowing of water from canals and dikes.
5. Insufficient river capacity to handle excessive water flow.
6. Clogged drainage systems and water pathways.
WHY FLOODS ARE DANGEROUS
Floods are dangerous depending on the strength of the current and how high the water rises. They can cause landslides, destruction of homes, power outages, and even result in people being swept away.
More InformationREASONS FOR FLOODING
RIVER FLOODING
Occurs when excessive rainfall causes rivers to overflow. This can last for several hours or days, depending on the volume and intensity of the rain, exceeding the river’s capacity.
COASTAL FLOODING
Happens due to storm surges, rising sea levels, or tsunamis caused by underwater earthquakes.
URBAN FLOODING
Occurs in areas where buildings and asphalt surfaces dominate. When heavy rain falls, water cannot seep into the ground due to concrete and asphalt, overwhelming drainage systems.
FLASH FLOODING
Caused by intense rainfall in areas with poor drainage. Flash floods occur rapidly, often in mountainous areas and steep slopes with streams. They rise quickly and offer little warning before occurring.
SHEET FLOODING
Occurs when water flows over flat, low-lying areas, often in plains. This can also result from rivers overflowing into nearby fields and residential areas.
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DISEASES THAT CAN BE CONTRACTED FROM FLOODWATER
Diarrhea
Frequent loose, watery, or runny stools.
Dengue
A mosquito-borne illness causing high fever, which is dangerous for children, infants, and the elderly.
Dysentery
Inflammation of the intestines, leading to mild or severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea with mucus or blood.
Leptospirosis
Caused by bacteria found in animal urine, often from rats, dogs, and farm animals.
Cholera
A severe case of diarrhea that can be fatal due to extreme dehydration.
Typhus
A bacterial infection spread by fleas or lice that bite the skin, leading to blood infection.
Malaria
A disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites.
Hepatitis A
Inflammation of the liver. Excessive alcohol consumption, toxins, certain medications, and medical conditions can cause hepatitis. It is contagious.
Athlete’s Foot
Ulcers or pus-filled sores, itching between the toes, cracked or peeling skin, rashes, blisters, and inflamed, red skin.
Pink Eye
Redness in one or both eyes, itching, tearing, sensitivity to light, excessive discharge, and swollen eyelids.
PREPARING FOR FLOODING
01 Stay alert for possible flooding and listen to weather updates.
Always pay attention to advisories from PAGASA to know if your area is at risk. Continuous monitoring of news is essential to avoid being caught off guard by bad weather.
02 Evacuate to an evacuation center or a higher place.
You should know the locations of evacuation centers in your area. Ensure you have a clear plan on how to evacuate in case the water level rises.
03 Prepare drinking water and food supplies.
Before a storm arrives, make sure you have enough clean drinking water and food that will last at least two days or more.
04 Move animals to a higher place.
If you have pets or livestock, ensure you have a plan on where to relocate them to keep them safe from flooding.
05 Move valuables to the second floor or a higher safe place.
Important items, such as documents and appliances, should be placed in an area where floodwaters cannot reach them.
06 Before evacuating, turn off the main switches for electricity, water, and LPG tanks.
To prevent accidents, ensure that all appliances and water lines are turned off before leaving your home.
07 If authorities issue an evacuation notice, evacuate immediately to a higher and safer location.
When an advisory is given by authorities, do not delay. Avoid wading through floodwaters as the current can be dangerous, and the water may carry diseases.
THINGS TO DO DURING A FLOOD
01 Monitor rising water levels and avoid electrical wires.
Do not swim or stand in floodwaters where there are fallen electrical wires. The water may carry electricity, which can be life-threatening.
02 Do not swim, wade, or bathe in floodwaters.
Floodwaters may contain bacteria that can cause diseases. If possible, avoid submerging in floodwater to prevent infections.
03 Avoid riding boats in rivers when the water is high and the current is strong.
Strong currents can capsize a boat or carry it to more dangerous areas. Find a safer way to evacuate if necessary.
04 Ensure drinking water and food are clean.
If necessary, boil water before drinking or use water purification tablets. Avoid eating food that has been submerged in floodwater as it may be contaminated.
THINGS TO DO AFTER A FLOOD
01 Do not eat or drink water contaminated by the flood.
Avoid consuming food and water that have been submerged in floodwaters, as they may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. Canned goods should be properly cleaned before use.
02 Get vaccinated at a hospital or clinic to prevent flood-related diseases.
Diseases like leptospirosis and other waterborne illnesses can be contracted from floodwaters. Always seek medical consultation if you experience symptoms after a disaster.
03 Be cautious when cleaning your home.
Wear gloves and boots when cleaning the house. Avoid touching items covered in mud as they may contain bacteria or chemicals.