Hydrometeorological Phenomena and Hazards

Hydrometeorologial Hazard: Process or phenomenon of atmospheric, hydrologica or

oceanographic nature that may cause loss of life, injury or other health that may impacts,
property damage, loss of livelihoods and services, social and economic disruption, or
environmental damage.

Hydrometeorological hazards include tropical cyclones (also known as typhoons and

hurricanes), thunderstorms, hailstorms, tornados, blizzards, heavy snowfall, avalanches,
coastal storm surges, floods including flash floods, drought, heatwaves and cold spells.

EL NIÑO- having no rain, hence the fear of drought and consequently dried-up fields.

LA NIÑA- Heavy rainfall and hazards such as flood.

Why is the Philippines are prone to Hydrometeorological Phenomena?

Due to its geographic setting and the constantly changing weather patterns, the Philippines has
always been vulnerable to natural hazards such as floods and landslides. With the combination of sea
level rise and more intense typhoons, the hazard posed by storm surges is also increased.
The Philippines is considered one of the most hazard-exposed countries in the world. The country's
people and economy are especially vulnerable to the impacts of natural hazards due to their
dependency on climate-reliant activities such as agriculture and on coastal and marine resources.

What is the effect of Hydrometeorogical Hazard?

It can pose a direct threat to lives and impact livelihoods by damaging and destroying transport links,
power supplies, businesses and agricultural land.

CATERGORIES OF TROPICAL CYCLONES

1. Tropical Depression- 35-63 kph
2. Tropical storm- 64 kph to 117 kph
3. Typhoon- 117 kph to 180 kph
4. Super-typhoon- More than 180 kph

What are the signs of Hydro-meteorological Hazard?

-Increased ocean swell
-Barometric Pressure Drop
-Wind Speed
-Heavy Rainfall

Warnings for these hazards can only be provided to the extent that the existing hydrometeorological
infrastructure permits. At the global level, the World Weather Watch and Hydrology and Water
Resources Programmes coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) provide a solid
operational framework on which to build improved early warning capacity. For drought, additional
infrastructure elements such as Drought Monitoring Centres have also been implemented in a
number of vulnerable regions. Within this framework, global and regional capacities are, generally
speaking, well developed but weaknesses exist in national and local infrastructures in many
developing countries.

Preparation before hazard

1. Start a conversation with your family.
2. Know how to evacuate when disaster strikes.
3. Find out about your installation’s emergency management plan.
4. Find a safe place to stay and check in with your command.