El Niño affects more than 37,000 families in Caraga

MINDANAO, Philippines — More than 37,000 families in the Caraga Region are currently affected by the El Niño phenomenon, as extreme heat, prolonged drought and water shortages continue to impact communities across the region.

According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), a total of 37,370 families, or 256,681 individuals, have been affected by El Niño in Caraga.

The effects are being felt particularly in Dinagat Islands and Butuan City, where communities are experiencing intense heat, prolonged dry conditions and limited water supply.

Water shortages and grass fires

The prolonged dry conditions have placed additional pressure on local water resources.

According to the NDRRMC report, four localities in Caraga currently have no regular water supply, highlighting the growing impact of the dry spell on communities.

Authorities have also recorded 39 grass-fire incidents in the region, another concern amid the continuing hot and dry conditions.

Agriculture takes a hit

The region's agricultural sector is also among those affected by the phenomenon.

A total of 5,179.53 hectares of crops have been affected by El Niño in Caraga, resulting in more than ₱197.5 million in production losses and damages.

The figures underscore the impact of prolonged dry conditions on farmers and agricultural production in the region.

Nine localities under state of calamity

As the effects continue, nine localities across Caraga have already been placed under a State of Calamity.

The declaration allows affected local governments to strengthen their response to the consequences of the prolonged dry conditions and address the needs of communities experiencing water shortages and agricultural losses.

El Niño affects communities nationwide

The effects of El Niño are not limited to Caraga.

Nationwide, the NDRRMC has recorded 96,012 affected families, equivalent to 353,675 individuals, including communities in Cagayan Valley, CALABARZON and Bicol.

For Caraga, however, the combination of water shortages, agricultural losses and prolonged heat continues to place pressure on communities as they cope with the ongoing effects of the climate phenomenon.

Source: Radyo Pilipinas