More frequent deforestation, land conversions, littering and poor waste management, and decreasing water absorption areas in urban neighborhoods have worsened floods, especially with heavy intensity of rainfalls. Floods bring disastrous immediate impacts such as damage to houses and properties, destruction of farming lands and crops, loss of livestocks, and waterborne diseases.

If you live near a river or on the lowlands or valley areas, you need to be prepared and regularly observe the river surface heights and the streamflows, especially during the rainy seasons. When you recognise any signs of flooding, evacuate immediately before the water floods your houses. Early evacuation saves lives. However, if the water has already flooded your house and you find it difficult to evacuate yourself, ask for the rescue team’s help to evacuate you using boats. Make sure that all family members are evacuated. Prioritise your family members and people who need help such as children, older people, and people with disabilities. You should avoid walking or swimming in the floods because there might be any invisible holes, obstacles, or other hazards on the ground that can harm you. The dirty and polluted water that transports bacteria or parasites can also cause waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, itches, and other health issues.

Before the flooding takes place, it is recommended to discuss with family members to decide the evacuation route and shelter while preparing an emergency kit. You can take preventive measures too such as planting trees on the riverbanks and hills or valleys. Habituate yourself to manage and dispose of your waste properly and clean the water drainage from any garbage regularly.