The Philippines is hit by about 20 tropical cyclones a year — more than almost anywhere on Earth. You can't stop a bagyo, but early preparation turns a disaster into an inconvenience. This guide covers the essentials: reading PAGASA signals, packing a go-bag, and staying safe from the two biggest killers in a typhoon — flooding and storm surge.
PAGASA raises Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (No. 1–5). The higher the number, the stronger the winds and the greater the danger — and classes or work may be suspended. Check PAGASA for the current signal and exact wind thresholds in your area.
Pack a go-bag (emergency kit)
Drinking water (about 1 gallon per person per day, for 3 days)
Non-perishable food + can opener
Flashlight, extra batteries, and a charged power bank
First-aid kit + maintenance medicines
Cash in small bills; whistle; raincoat
IDs and important documents in a waterproof bag
Secure your home
Clear gutters, canals, and drains so water flows away.
Tie down or bring inside loose objects (plant pots, GI sheets, signage).
Move appliances, valuables, and documents to higher ground if flood-prone.
Charge phones and power banks while you still have electricity.
2. Habang may bagyo — stay safe
Manatili sa loob, malayo sa bintana at salamin.
Makinig sa opisyal na advisory ng PAGASA, NDRRMC, at LGU — battery radio kung walang kuryente.
Lumikas nang maaga kung pinayuhan o flood-/landslide-/storm-surge-prone ang lugar. Huwag maghintay.
Huwag tumawid sa baha. Kahit 6 na pulgada (15 cm) ng umaagos na tubig ay kayang itumba ka; 1–2 talampakan ay tinatangay ang sasakyan.
Kung malapit sa dagat: mag-ingat sa storm surge — pumunta sa mataas na lugar kung inutusan.
Patayin ang kuryente kung papasok na ang baha sa bahay.
Iwasan ang nahulog na power lines — ituring na buhay (live) ang lahat.
3. Pagkatapos ng bagyo
Hintayin ang opisyal na "all-clear" bago bumalik o maglakad sa labas.
Iwasan pa rin ang baha — kontaminado, may debris, at delikado sa kuryente.
Bantayan ang leptospirosis. Kung nababad sa baha at lumagnat, nanghina, o sumakit ang kalamnan, magpatingin agad sa doktor.
Pakuluan o i-disinfect ang tubig kung hindi sigurado kung ligtas.
I-dokumento ang pinsala (litrato) para sa tulong o claims.
Official sources: PAGASA (forecasts & signals) and NDRRMC (disaster response). Check them for live advisories and evacuation guidance.
