Just six inches (15 centimeters) of fast-moving floodwater can knock an adult off their feet. At 12 inches (30 centimeters), rushing water can sweep away most cars.
As Typhoon Inday continues to enhance the southwest monsoon (Habagat), bringing heavy rains across parts of the Philippines, commuters are being urged to stay alert as flooding and possible class or work suspensions threaten daily travel.
For many people, the safest decision starts before leaving home: checking weather updates and official announcements.
"I usually wait for announcements and watch the news to stay updated on what's happening," said commuter John Rico Enclonar. He said staying informed helps him avoid unnecessary risks as weather conditions can change quickly.
Another commuter, Abdul Hadie G. Salic, said his biggest concern during heavy rains is getting stranded if floodwaters cause vehicle breakdowns. He also emphasized the importance of staying connected with family members during emergencies.
Schools are also reinforcing disaster preparedness to keep students safe.
Asmin Malic, a teacher, said disaster preparedness orientations are conducted at the beginning of every school year so learners know how to respond during emergencies. Schools also announce class suspensions through official memoranda, campus announcements, and group chats to ensure students and parents receive timely information.
"We orient learners on disaster preparedness so they know what to do during emergencies," Malic said.
Reliable information also plays a crucial role during severe weather.
Jay Ritchie Mikin, a radio broadcaster from Radyo Pilipinas Iligan, said their station helps communities prepare by sharing verified advisories from national and local government agencies through radio broadcasts, social media platforms, and news articles published in different dialects.
Authorities continue to remind the public never to walk or drive through flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow. According to the U.S. National Weather Service, just six inches (15 centimeters) of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet, while 12 inches (30 centimeters) can carry away most vehicles.
As the rainy season continues, officials encourage the public to monitor only official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel during floods, and prioritize safety over convenience to reduce the risk of accidents.
