Metro Manila Flood Warning Issued Amid Strong Habagat Rains

southwest Monsoon Intensifies Nationwide, PAGASA Warns of Persistent Rainfall

metro Manila, Philippines – Residents across teh Philippines can expect continued monsoon rains and meaningful weather disturbances as the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as “Habagat,” intensifies its influence over the archipelago. The Philippine Atmospheric, geophysical and Astronomical Services Management (PAGASA) has issued alerts for widespread rainfall, particularly impacting parts of Northern Luzon and the western regions of the country.

In the coming days, a Low-Pressure Area (LPA) is also being closely monitored by PAGASA, with potential implications for further weather shifts. While the LPA currently poses no direct threat to extreme Northern Luzon, its development could contribute to the ongoing monsoon activity.this persistent monsoon pattern underscores the importance of weather preparedness for communities throughout the Philippines. Historical data shows that periods of intensified Habagat frequently enough bring challenging conditions, including potential flooding and disruption of daily activities. Understanding these seasonal weather patterns is crucial for residents in low-lying areas and coastal communities.

PAGASA’s continuous monitoring and advisories are vital for public safety. As the monsoon season progresses,staying informed about weather updates and following safety guidelines issued by local authorities remains paramount. The current weather setup highlights the dynamic nature of the Philippine climate and the ongoing need for vigilance and readiness against the impacts of strong monsoon systems.

What actions should residents in areas with an Orange Rainfall Warning take?

Current Flood Situation in Metro Manila (July 18, 2025)

A widespread flood warning is currently in effect for Metro Manila as the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as Habagat, continues to bring heavy rainfall to the region.As of 2:00 AM PST today, July 18, 2025, PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) has issued Orange and Yellow rainfall warnings for several areas. This means intense rainfall is expected, potentially leading to flooding and landslides.

orange Rainfall Warning: Expect flooding in low-lying areas and near river channels. Be vigilant and prepare for evacuation if necessary.

Yellow rainfall Warning: Possible flooding in susceptible areas. monitor weather updates closely.

Affected areas currently include, but are not limited to:

Quezon City

manila City

Pasay City

Caloocan City

Navotas City

Malabon City

Valenzuela City

Understanding the Habagat and Flood Risks

The Habagat is a seasonal wind pattern that brings moist air from the West Philippine Sea, resulting in prolonged periods of rainfall, particularly during the months of June to November. This year,the Habagat is being intensified by a low-pressure area (LPA) located off Luzon,contributing to the unusually heavy downpour.

several factors exacerbate the flood risk in Metro Manila:

Flat Topography: Much of Metro Manila is situated on a low-lying plain, making it highly susceptible to flooding.

Poor Drainage Systems: Aging and inadequate drainage infrastructure struggle to cope with the volume of rainfall. Regular canal cleaning is crucial but often insufficient.

Urbanization & Concrete Jungles: Increased concrete surfaces reduce water absorption, leading to rapid runoff and increased flood levels.

Garbage & blocked Drainage: Improper waste disposal frequently clogs drainage systems, worsening flooding. Waste management is a critical issue.

Real-time Flood Updates & Monitoring

Staying informed is paramount during a flood warning. Here are key resources for real-time updates:

1. PAGASA Website: https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/ – Official weather forecasts, rainfall warnings, and flood advisories.
2. NDRRMC (National disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council): Provides updates on evacuation centers, rescue operations, and overall disaster response.
3. Local Government Units (LGUs): Follow your city or municipality’s official social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter) for localized updates and evacuation announcements.
4. News Agencies: Reputable news organizations (ABS-CBN news, GMA News, Rappler) provide continuous coverage of the flooding situation.
5. Social Media Monitoring: Use hashtags like #Habagat, #MetroManilaFloods, #FloodWarningPH to track real-time reports from citizens. Citizen journalism can provide valuable on-the-ground details.

Safety Precautions & Emergency Preparedness

Protecting yourself and your family is the top priority. Here’s a checklist of essential safety measures:

Evacuate if Advised: Heed evacuation orders from local authorities instantly.

Stay indoors: If possible, remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

Unplug Electrical Appliances: Prevent electrocution by disconnecting electrical devices.

Move Valuables to Higher Ground: Protect crucial documents and belongings from water damage.

Prepare a Go-Bag: Include essential supplies like:

Non-perishable food

Drinking water

First-aid kit

Flashlight with extra batteries

Radio

Important medications

Cash

Avoid Floodwaters: Floodwaters can be contaminated and pose health risks.Also, hidden dangers like open manholes may exist.

Monitor Water Levels: Be aware of rising water levels in your area.

Past Context: Major Metro Manila Floods

metro Manila has a history of devastating floods. The 2009 Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) remains a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability. Ondoy caused widespread flooding, resulting in significant loss of life and billions of pesos in damages.More recently, Typhoon Ulysses (Vamco) in 2020 also triggered severe flooding, highlighting the ongoing need for improved flood control measures. These events underscore the importance of disaster preparedness and proactive mitigation strategies.

Long-Term Flood Mitigation Efforts

The government and various organizations are implementing long-term projects to address Metro Manila’s flooding problems:

Mega Manila flood Control Project: A