Bracing for the Winds: How to Prepare for the Challenges of Typhoon Season

The cozy rainy season in the Philippines, which typically starts around June, also marks the beginning of the typhoon season. The Philippines experiences an average of 20 typhoons every year and according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), this 2023, as many as 15 tropical cyclones may enter or form within the Philippine area of responsibility from June to October alone.

While the rainy season brings cooler temperatures and respite from the heat, it is important to stay vigilant and prepared for not just increased rainfall, but also the increased likelihood of typhoons.

Did you know?

A storm that develops over the Northwest Pacific is referred to as a typhoon. It’s different from a hurricane because hurricanes are born in the Atlantic Ocean, while typhoons are born in the northwest Pacific Ocean. Their impacts, formation process, and characteristics are essentially the same, and the differences in naming are only to distinguish their geographical regions

How and Why it’s Crucial to prepare for Typhoons

Typhoons are a common occurrence in the Philippines, with an average of 20-25 typhoons hitting the country each year. The Philippines is also one of the most disaster-prone countries in Asia due to its location on Typhoon Alley and its high exposure to tropical cyclones coming from both directions (the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea). While the Philippines is used to preparing for these natural disasters, there are still many vulnerable communities who need help getting ready before, during and after a storm hits.

The Impact of Typhoons

Typhoons have significant impacts on the Philippines, affecting various aspects of the nation. These storms can have devastating effects on both people and the environment.

Environmental Impact:

Typhoons cause damage to ecosystems, leading to loss of natural habitats and disturbance of marine life. Additionally, they contribute to soil erosion and landslides, which can result in long-term agricultural productivity issues and infrastructure damage.

Socio-Economic Impact:

The agricultural sector often experiences crop destruction, food insecurity, and loss of livelihood for farmers due to typhoons. Infrastructure, including homes, schools, roads, and bridges, are frequently damaged or destroyed. The economy suffers as well, with the nation facing economic losses due to property damage and interruptions in productivity. Recovery and rehabilitation expenses further exacerbate the financial strain.

Public Health Impact:

Typhoons increase the risk of infectious diseases, as contaminated water sources and crowded evacuation centers become breeding grounds for pathogens. Moreover, mental health concerns, such as trauma, stress, and related disorders, are prevalent among affected populations.

The Importance of Individual and Community Preparedness

One of the recent and worst typhoons to hit the Philippines was Typhoon Vamco, locally known as Ulysses, which affected the country on November 11, 2020. This typhoon caused the worst flooding in Metro Manila since 2009, resulting in the deaths of 98 people, and damages of ₱20.3 billion (US$421 million), making it the sixth costliest Philippine typhoon on record.

Another destructive typhoon was Super Typhoon Rai, which occurred in late 2021. Typhoon Rai resulted in at least 375 deaths, as a result of powerful storms.

Then there was Typhoon Yolanda, also known as Super Typhoon Haiyan, which hit the country in 2013. This typhoon was one of the most powerful of its kind ever recorded. It had 10-minute sustained wind speeds of 230 km/h, and 1-minute sustained wind speeds of up to 315 km/h, causing widespread destruction and leading to a death toll of around 6,300 people. The typhoon also caused damage worth ₱95.5 billion.

Given these tragedies from recurring harsh weather conditions, it’s critical for the Philippines to continue enhancing its typhoon preparedness measures and early warning systems to ensure the safety and resilience of its people.

Preparing for Typhoon Season

Aside from national and local government measures, individual and community preparedness are equally crucial aspects to minimizing potential damage and keeping homes habitable and safe during a typhoon, and ensuring quicker recovery after it hits. Below are some recommendations on how individuals and communities can prepare for this natural calamity:

For Individuals:

1. Making a Family Preparedness Plan. A family preparedness plan is a strategy or a set of procedures that a family has in place to use in a variety of emergency situations. It is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all family members during and after a disaster. The plan typically includes emergency contact information, evacuation plans, meeting place, emergency supply kits, plans for pets and livestock, vital documents, as well as communication plans.
2. Stocking Up On Essential Supplies. When preparing for the typhoon season, it is vital to stock up on essential supplies that will last for at least 3 days. Below is a checklist of items you should consider:
   • Food and Water. Non-perishable foods that require no refrigeration or cooking.
   • Medications. A seven-day supply of prescription medication and any other necessary over-the-counter medications.
   • First Aid Kit. Includes items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, etc.
   • Tools and Supplies like battery-powered or hand-crank radios, flashlights with extra batteries, manual can openers, multi-purpose tools, cell phones with chargers, and a backup battery.
   • Personal Items. Personal hygiene items (like soap, toothpaste, sanitary items), change of clothes and sturdy shoes, and blankets or sleeping bags
   • Important Documents. Important personal documents like insurance policies and identification, are stored in a waterproof container.
   • Cash and Coins. Banks and ATMs may not be open or accessible after a typhoon.
   • Pet Supplies. If you have pets, remember to include food, water, and other supplies for them

Remember to check your supply kit every six months and replace expired items.

3. Protecting Your Property

• Check your Insurance. Verify that your insurance policies cover storm and typhoon damage.

4. Secure the Exterior

• Regularly trim trees near your home to reduce the risk of them falling onto the property.
• Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and anything else that might get carried away by strong winds.
• Install storm shutters to protect windows from breaking.

5. Improve Your Home’s Resilience

• Consider reinforcing your roof and walls to withstand strong winds.
• Seal doors, windows, and any wall openings to prevent water intrusion.
• Strengthen doors and windows with hurricane-resistant materials.

6. Protect Interior Items

• Move furniture and electronics away from windows and doors.
• Use waterproof containers for important documents and valuables, and store them at elevated places to protect them from flood.

7. Maintain Gutters and Drainages. Regularly clean gutters and drains to prevent blockages that could lead to water damage2.
8. Install a Generator. Having a generator will ensure you have power even if a typhoon knocks it out for an extended period.

Remember, the aim is to minimize potential damage and keep your home habitable and safe.

For Communities:

1. Establish early warning systems: It is important to have advanced monitoring systems in place to provide timely information on impending typhoons, which can be used to communicate with residents and implement early evacuation plans if necessary.
2. Create and implement disaster preparedness plans: Such plans should involve local authorities, community members, and relevant organizations, and focus on clearly defined roles and responsibilities, ensuring efficient coordination during typhoons.
3. Improve infrastructure: Building infrastructure that is resilient to extreme weather events, such as using hurricane clips and straps for securing roofs, can reduce the damage caused by strong winds associated with typhoons.
4. Educate and train community members: Providing information and conducting drills on what to do before, during, and after a typhoon can empower residents to make informed decisions that safeguard their lives and property.
5. Develop effective evacuation systems: Designating safe evacuation routes, transportation, and temporary shelters ahead of time can improve the efficiency of evacuations and help minimize casualties.
6. Promote community-based disaster risk reduction: Encouraging community involvement in disaster preparedness initiatives, such as clean-up drives, mangrove reforestation, and coastal protection projects, can contribute to increased resilience against typhoons.

Resources and Information During the Typhoon Season

Having access to key resources and reliable sources of information is critical for safety and preparedness. The following are useful resources that can provide reliable information:

Government Agencies and Websites

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA): PAGASA provides up-to-date weather forecasts, advisories, and warnings.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC): They are responsible for ensuring the protection and welfare of people during disasters or emergencies. The council provides detailed reports, including updates, warnings, impact reports, response efforts, and more.

Social Media

A lot of Filipinos use social media platforms to stay connected, and during times of calamities, it becomes an essential source of immediate updates. Pages of government agencies like PAGASA and NDRRMC are active on social media, where they post regular updates.

News Websites and Televisions Channels

Staying updated with news from established sources such as ABS-CBN, GMA Network, and The Philippine Star among others, is crucial during the typhoon season. These channels provide regular weather updates and safety protocols during calamities.

Typhoons are fortunately easier to forecast compared to other natural calamities therefore it is important to stay informed and to have a plan in place. While we can’t control the weather, we can control how prepared we are when disaster strikes–and that may just be enough to keep us safe through whatever comes our way.