Case Study Analysis: 2024 Luzon
Flooding
Introduction
In July 2024, Luzon experienced one of its most devastating flooding events in recent history.
Triggered by the southwest monsoon (habagat) intensified by Typhoon Carina (international
name: Gaemi), the torrential rains led to widespread inundation across Metro Manila, Central
Luzon, and northern provinces. The deluge resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of
communities, and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture.
Coordination of Response Efforts
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) activated emergency
protocols, coordinating with local government units (LGUs) to implement evacuation plans and
deploy rescue operations. In Metro Manila, the declaration of a state of calamity facilitated the
mobilization of resources and expedited relief efforts. The Philippine National Police and the
Armed Forces assisted in search and rescue missions, particularly in severely affected areas like
Navotas, where 80% of the city was submerged.
In Central Luzon, provinces such as Pampanga, Bulacan, and Bataan faced extensive flooding,
prompting the establishment of evacuation centers and the distribution of relief goods. The
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) coordinated with LGUs to provide
assistance to displaced families.
Effectiveness of Communication Strategies
Effective communication was pivotal in mitigating the disaster's impact. The Philippine
Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued timely
weather advisories, while LGUs utilized social media platforms and local radio stations to
disseminate information regarding evacuation procedures and safety measures. Community
leaders played a crucial role in relaying information to residents, ensuring that warnings reached
even the most remote areas.
However, challenges persisted, including misinformation spread through unofficial channels and
limited access to communication tools in some rural communities. Efforts were made to
counteract these issues by deploying information officers and establishing community bulletin
boards in evacuation centers.
Implementation of Health and Safety Measures
The Department of Health (DOH) and LGUs implemented comprehensive health and safety
protocols to address the immediate needs of affected populations. Medical teams were
dispatched to evacuation centers to provide essential health services, including treatment for
waterborne diseases, which posed a significant risk due to contaminated floodwaters.
Sanitation facilities were established to prevent the outbreak of diseases, and hygiene kits were
distributed to evacuees. Public health education campaigns were conducted to promote
practices such as handwashing and proper waste disposal. Additionally, mental health support
services were made available to address the psychological impact of the disaster on survivors.
Nursing Responsibilities and Interventions
Nurses were at the forefront of the disaster response, undertaking a range of critical
responsibilities:
1. 1. Assessment of Injuries:
Nurses conducted triage assessments in evacuation centers and temporary clinics,
identifying individuals requiring immediate medical attention. They monitored vital signs,
managed chronic conditions, and coordinated with physicians for further treatment.
2. 2. Provision of First Aid:
Immediate first aid was administered to those injured during evacuations or rescue
operations. Nurses treated wounds, managed fractures, and provided care for hypothermia
and other flood-related ailments.
3. 3. Mental Health Support:
Recognizing the trauma experienced by flood victims, nurses offered psychological first aid,
facilitated counseling sessions, and referred individuals to mental health professionals when
necessary.
4. 4. Health Education and Disease Prevention:
Nurses conducted health education sessions focusing on hygiene practices, disease
prevention, and the importance of seeking medical care. They distributed informational
materials and engaged with community members to address health concerns.
5. 5. Coordination with Multidisciplinary Teams:
Nurses collaborated with other healthcare professionals, emergency responders, and NGOs
to ensure a coordinated approach to patient care. They participated in planning meetings,
shared patient information, and contributed to the development of care plans.
Conclusion
The 2024 Luzon flooding underscored the critical importance of coordinated disaster response,
effective communication, and comprehensive health and safety measures. Nurses played an
indispensable role in addressing the immediate and long-term needs of affected populations,
demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to patient care. The lessons
learned from this event will inform future preparedness and response strategies, enhancing the
country's capacity to manage natural disasters.
References
Weather tracker: Typhoon Gaemi wreaks havoc in Philippines and Taiwan. The Guardian.
July 26, 2024. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/26/weather-
tracker-typhoon-gaemi-wreaks-havoc-philippines-taiwan
Floods force over 1,000 people to flee homes in Pangasinan. Rappler. July 26, 2024.
https://www.rappler.com/philippines/luzon/floods-force-mass-evacuation-pangasinan-july-
26-2024
90 villages in 10 towns in Pampanga hit by flood. Rappler. July 25, 2024.
https://www.rappler.com/philippines/luzon/pampanga-villages-affected-habagat-carina-
july-24-2024
Agri losses in 3 Central Luzon provinces due to southwest monsoon hit P576.72M. Rappler.
July 27, 2024. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/luzon/agricultural-losses-bataan-
bulacan-pampanga-southwest-monsoon-july-27-2024
Metro Manila under state of calamity due to enhanced southwest monsoon. Rappler. July
24, 2024. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/metro-manila/state-calamity-typhoon-
carina-southwest-monsoon-july-24-2024
Heavy rain, flood, landslides affect 1,500 families in Cordillera. Rappler. July 25, 2024.
https://www.rappler.com/philippines/luzon/heavy-rain-flood-landslides-cordillera-july-25-
2024
More rain than 'Ondoy' but less intense: Why 'Carina'-enhanced habagat submerged Luzon.
Philstar. July 25, 2024. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/07/25/2372926/more-
rain-ondoy-less-intense-why-carina-enhanced-habagat-submerged-luzon
