TITAY, Zamboanga Sibugay, July 24, 2026 — Personnel of the Titay Municipal Fire Station (MFS) intensified water level monitoring in flood-prone areas after several portions of Poblacion, Titay were inundated by floodwaters on July 24, 2026, as continuous heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) affected the municipality.

The monitoring operations were conducted under the supervision of SFO4 Neil P Siaron, Acting Municipal Fire Marshal, to ensure the timely assessment of rising water levels and provide immediate response should the situation worsen.

The heavy rainfall was brought about by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), enhanced by prevailing weather systems affecting parts of Mindanao. Continuous rainfall caused water levels in creeks and low-lying areas to rise, resulting in flooding in portions of Poblacion. Firefighters immediately monitored the situation, assessed flood-affected areas, and coordinated with local authorities to ensure the safety of residents.

Titay MFS personnel reminded the public to closely monitor weather advisories issued by PAGASA and local authorities, avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges with strong currents, and prepare emergency go-bags containing essential supplies such as food, drinking water, medicines, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Residents living in flood-prone areas were also encouraged to evacuate early whenever necessary and immediately report emergencies to the appropriate authorities.

The Titay Municipal Fire Station also cautioned the public about the health risks associated with exposure to floodwaters. Floodwater may contain bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and other contaminants that can cause illnesses such as leptospirosis, acute gastroenteritis (diarrhea), skin infections, dengue due to stagnant water, and other waterborne diseases. Residents are advised to avoid wading through floodwaters whenever possible. If contact cannot be avoided, they should thoroughly wash exposed skin with clean water and soap, disinfect wounds immediately, wear protective boots, and seek medical consultation if they develop fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, or skin infections after flood exposure.

The Titay Municipal Fire Station continues to monitor weather conditions and water levels throughout the rainy season while remaining on standby to respond to emergencies. The station encourages everyone to stay informed, exercise caution, and work together in protecting lives and property, emphasizing that preparedness and early action remain the community’s strongest defense against flooding and other weather-related hazards.