Back-to-Back Storms Slam PH, Fuel Flash Floods & Calamity Declarations

Two tropical cyclones just entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), and they’re making their presence known — big time. Tropical depression Emong and tropical storm Dante are bringing heavy rains, floods, work and class suspensions across the country.

Emong Hits Closer to Home

Emong formed on the morning of July 23 and is already affecting Northern Luzon. As of 10 a.m., it was just 115 km west-northwest of Laoag City, packing winds of 45 km/h and gusts up to 55 km/h.

PAGASA warns that rains will only get heavier — especially in Ilocos, La Union, and nearby provinces — with possible intense to torrential downpours in the next 48 hours.

Signal No. 1 has been raised in parts of Ilocos, La Union, and Pangasinan, where strong winds and flash floods are expected.

 

Dante Staying Distant, But Still Messy

While Emong’s busy soaking the north, Dante is floating farther out — 900 km east of Northern Luzon — and headed for Japan. But even at a distance, it’s boosting the southwest monsoon or habagat, making everything wetter for days.

No cyclone signals for Dante, but its monsoon boost is still a problem.

Habagat Means Days of Rain

With both storms feeding the habagat, rains are expected to keep pounding Luzon and parts of Visayas through July 26. Expect heavy showers especially in Zambales, Bataan, Metro Manila, and nearby provinces.

Gusty winds are also hitting Luzon and Visayas, making outdoor plans a washout.

Class and Work Suspensions

Malacañang suspended classes in all levels and government work in Metro Manila and 36 provinces on July 24. Emergency and essential workers, though, still need to clock in.

Several Areas Under State of Calamity

Due to nonstop rain and flooding, many areas have declared a state of calamity, including:

• Manila

• Quezon City

• Malabon

• Cavite

• Cainta

• Cebu City

• Roxas, Palawan

• Multiple towns in Bulacan, Antique, and Pangasinan

This allows quicker access to emergency funds and relief.

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here