Philippines: Southwest Monsoon and Typhoon Gaemi - Flash Update No.2, As of 25 July 2024, 7 p.m. local time

Situation Overview

Super Typhoon Gaemi (local name Carina) has been downgraded to a typhoon as it crossed Taiwan and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on 25 July. The storm, combined with the effects of the southwest monsoon, brought heavy rainfall to the western section of Luzon, including Metro Manila. Flooding incidents have been reported in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Due to the intense amount of rainfall, floodgates were opened for Ipo and Binga dams located in Central and Northern Luzon respectively, which further contributed to flooding incidents. In addition, La Mesa Dam, located near Metro Manila, reached its spilling level, but has since returned to normal levels. Weather is expected to improve in the coming days, but the state weather bureau PAGASA reports heavy to intense rainfall is expected over the western portion of Luzon until 27 July.

Impact and Affected Areas

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reported that over 393,000 people (101,500 families) were affected by the 24 July incidents across 11 regions - NCR, I, II, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, VII, X, and CAR. The hardest-hit areas in Metro Manila were cities Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela and Marikina. Over 86,000 people were evacuated in these areas, with many evacuees returning to their homes as floods subsided.

In total, the combined effects of several weather systems in place since 9 July has affected over 1.1 million people (245k families) nationwide. As of 25 July, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported 13 confirmed casualties, with two additional potential casualties in Metro Manila and 2 injured.

A state of calamity has been declared in Metro Manila, the provinces of Batangas, Cavite, Pampanga and Bulacan, allowing local governments to fully access disaster funding. Additional declarations may arise in the coming days. Due to strong waves and winds, a fuel tanker carrying close to 1.4 million litres of fuel capsized off the coast of Bataan, north of Manila. The Coast Guard rescued 16 out of 17 crew members, but oil spill containment is hindered by strong winds and high waves. Coordination with the private sector is ongoing for resource deployment. Eight bridges are not passable, including F.Manalo Bridge in Marikina which is temporarily closed due to safety concerns. About 150 international and domestic flights have been cancelled in Metro Manila on 24 and 25 July.