Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the Philippines. Whether caused by typhoons, monsoon rains, or intense localised thunderstorms, floods affect millions of Filipinos every year. The good news is that most flood deaths are preventable. The key is knowing what to do — and doing it before the water arrives.

Before a Flood: Prepare in Advance

Know your flood risk. Ask your barangay captain or LGU whether your home is in a flood-prone area, and at what water level flooding typically begins. Know the elevation of your home relative to the nearest river or drainage canal. Identify your nearest evacuation centre and the safest route to reach it — including an alternative route in case the main road is already flooded. Prepare your Go Bag and keep it near the door. Store important documents in a waterproof container. Keep a three-day supply of food and water. Know how to turn off your electricity at the main breaker.

During a Flood: Act Early and Stay Safe

The most important rule during a flood is to evacuate early. Do not wait until the water is at your door. By the time floodwater enters your home, roads may already be impassable and evacuation may be impossible. If your LGU issues an evacuation order, follow it immediately. If you choose to shelter in place in a multi-storey building, move to the upper floors and bring your Go Bag, food, water, and medicines. Turn off the main electrical breaker before floodwater reaches your electrical outlets — electrocution in floodwater is a real and preventable danger.

Never walk or drive through floodwater. Moving water as shallow as 15 centimetres can knock a person off their feet. Water 30 centimetres deep can carry away a small vehicle. Floodwater conceals open manholes, sharp debris, damaged road surfaces, and live electrical wires. If you must move through floodwater on foot, use a stick to probe the ground ahead of you and move slowly.

After a Flood: Returning Home Safely

Do not return home until your LGU declares it safe. Floodwater may still be rising even after the rain has stopped, as water from upstream continues to flow downstream. When you do return, inspect your home for structural damage before entering. Check for gas leaks — if you smell gas, do not enter and call your gas supplier immediately. Do not use electrical appliances until an electrician has confirmed they are safe. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth — floodwater contaminates wells, pipes, and water tanks. Wear rubber boots and gloves when cleaning up, as floodwater carries sewage, chemicals, and pathogens. Photograph all damage for insurance and government assistance claims.

Leptospirosis: The Hidden Danger of Floodwater

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals — particularly rats, which are common in Philippine urban environments. After every major flood, leptospirosis cases surge. Symptoms include sudden fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and red eyes, appearing 2 to 30 days after exposure. If you develop these symptoms after contact with floodwater, seek medical attention immediately. Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics if caught early, but can be fatal if left untreated. Wear rubber boots and gloves whenever you must wade through floodwater, and wash thoroughly with soap and clean water afterward.