Philippines on Red Alert: NDRRMC Prepares for ‘Crising’ Typhoon Threat

Philippines on Red Alert as Tropical Depression Crising Approaches

MANILA, Philippines – The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has escalated its alert status to “red” as Tropical Depression Crising intensifies and poses a potential threat to various regions. The heightened alert, effective at noon on Thursday, July 17, 2025, signals a mobilization of all relevant government agencies in anticipation of the weather disturbanceS impact.

Under the red alert, all designated duty officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police are mandated to report for duty at the NDRRMC operations center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. This ensures a coordinated and immediate response to any developing situations.

Moreover, technical experts from key government departments have been called to bolster the operations center. These include representatives from the department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric geophysical and Astronomical Service (PAGASA),Department of the Interior and Local Government,Department of Social Welfare and Development,Department of Agriculture,Department of Public Works and Highways,Department of Education,and Department of Health.

PAGASA’s latest bulletin at 11 a.m. indicated that 14 areas are currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to Crising. The weather bureau forecasts that Crising could strengthen into a tropical storm within the day and perhaps escalate to a severe tropical storm by Friday. Projections suggest a possible landfall over mainland Cagayan over the weekend.

In response to the adverse weather conditions, several local government units have already suspended classes across all levels. The inclement weather has also led to the cancellation of at least two flights thus far. The NDRRMC’s proactive measures underscore the seriousness with which the approaching weather disturbance is being treated to ensure public safety and preparedness.

What specific protocols are in place for preemptive evacuations, particularly concerning the accessibility and safety of vulnerable populations?

Understanding the ‘Crising’ Threat & Red Alert Status

As of July 17, 2025, the Philippines’ National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has raised the national alert status to Red Alert in anticipation of Typhoon ‘Crising’. This signifies a severe threat to life and property, demanding immediate and coordinated disaster preparedness efforts across the archipelago. The Philippine atmospheric,Geophysical and Astronomical Services Management (PAGASA) forecasts ‘Crising’ to intensify as it approaches the eastern coast,possibly making landfall as a Category 2 or 3 typhoon. This escalation necessitates a thorough understanding of the risks and the ongoing response.

Key Areas Under Threat & Projected Path

Currently, the regions most at risk include:

Bicol Region: Expected to experience the brunt of the typhoon’s initial impact, with heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Eastern Visayas: High probability of direct hit, triggering widespread flooding and landslides.

Quezon Province & Aurora: Bracing for intense rainfall and potential storm surges.

Northern Luzon: Monitoring the typhoon’s trajectory, with potential for impact as it moves northward.

PAGASA’s latest projections indicate ‘Crising’ will follow a northwestward track, potentially exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by July 20th. Though, the exact path remains uncertain, and continuous monitoring is crucial.Refer to the Routard.com Philippines map for geographical context.

NDRRMC’s Response & Pre-Disaster Actions

The NDRRMC is spearheading a multi-faceted response, focusing on proactive measures to minimize casualties and damage. Key actions include:

1. Preemptive Evacuation: Mandatory evacuations are underway in high-risk areas,prioritizing vulnerable populations – the elderly,children,and those with disabilities. Evacuation centers are being prepared with essential supplies.
2. Deployment of response Teams: search and Rescue (SAR) teams, medical personnel, and engineering brigades are being strategically deployed to affected regions.
3. Stockpiling of Relief Goods: Food packs, water purification tablets, hygiene kits, and other essential relief supplies are being pre-positioned in warehouses and distribution points.
4. Infrastructure Assessment: critical infrastructure – power grids, communication networks, and transportation systems – are being assessed for vulnerabilities and potential disruptions.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns: Continuous dissemination of weather updates, safety advisories, and evacuation orders through various channels – television, radio, social media, and local government units.

Understanding the Alert Levels: A Rapid Guide

The Philippine Alert Levels system is designed to escalate preparedness based on the severity of the threat:

Blue Alert: Monitoring of the weather situation; preparedness measures initiated.

Green Alert: Alert status raised; continuous monitoring and coordination.

Yellow Alert: Increased alertness; pre-emptive evacuation of at-risk communities.

Red Alert: Severe threat; immediate and coordinated response required. This is the current status for Typhoon ‘Crising’.

Preparing Yoru Home & Family: A Checklist

Even with government efforts, individual preparedness is paramount. Here’s a checklist to help you and your family prepare:

Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit containing:

Non-perishable food (3-day supply)

Water (3 gallons per person)

First-aid kit

Flashlight with extra batteries

Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)

Whistle

Cash

Vital documents (in waterproof containers)

Secure Your Home: Reinforce windows and doors, clear gutters, and trim trees.

Communication Plan: Establish a family communication plan and identify a designated meeting point.

Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from PAGASA and NDRRMC.

Know Your Evacuation Route: Familiarize yourself with the designated evacuation routes in your area.

lessons from Past Typhoons: Case study – Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda)

The devastating impact of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013 serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of typhoons. Yolanda highlighted critical gaps in disaster preparedness, including inadequate early warning systems, insufficient evacuation infrastructure, and logistical challenges in delivering relief aid. Post-Yolanda, significant investments have been made in strengthening these areas, including improved weather forecasting technology, construction of more resilient evacuation centers, and enhanced coordination among government agencies and humanitarian organizations. Though, continuous improvement is essential.

Staying Updated: Reliable Details sources

PAGASA: https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/ (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration)

* NDRRMC: https://www.ndrrmc.gov.ph/ (National Disaster Risk Reduction and management