Philippines hit by incessant rains, causing landslides and flash floods

At least 10 days of consecutive rain in southern Philippines have generated landslides and flash floods, destroying agricultural areas and infrastructure. Thousands of families have been displaced, while humanitarian assistance may be difficult to reach the affected areas, as a result of the damaged road network. 

Heavy rains in southern Philippines were caused as trade winds converge along or near the equator, only a couple o f weeks after the monsoon. Heavy rains have inundated and caused extensive landslides in four provinces in the country, urging the authorities to declare them in a state of emergency. Additionally, more than 13,000 families were affected in the flooded areas, and displaced in evacuation centers. 

Damaged areas include farming land and much of the provinces' infrastructure. According to the Philippines authorities, about 200 hectares of crops have been destroyed, of total worth exceeding $US500,000, whereas landslide damages are estimated at P5 million. A report issued by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported damages in agriculture to climb up to P1,093,115 and P1,297,000 in infrastructure.