Severe Tropical Storm Crising and Monsoon Impact: 5 Dead, 800K Affected

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on July 21, 2025, that the death toll attributed to Severe Tropical Storm Crising and the Southwest Monsoon has risen to five, with over 800,000 individuals affected across various regions of the Philippines. According to the NDRRMC's official statement, the storm's impact has resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement, as communities grapple with the aftermath of the relentless weather conditions.

As of the latest updates, the NDRRMC confirmed that five individuals were injured, an increase from three reported the previous day, and seven others remain unaccounted for. The council has validated two of the fatalities and one injury, and efforts are ongoing to verify the remaining figures. The scale of the disaster prompted the NDRRMC to mobilize emergency services to assist affected families.

The storm and accompanying monsoon have impacted a staggering 800,864 individuals, which translates to approximately 225,985 families. The NDRRMC detailed that the affected population spans 1,556 barangays, with 20,115 individuals, or 5,921 families, currently sheltered in evacuation centers. Furthermore, an additional 70,720 individuals, accounting for 16,671 families, remain outside of these centers, highlighting the extensive reach of the storm's effects.

Dr. Maria Lopez, a meteorologist at the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), noted that storms of this magnitude pose serious risks not only to life and property but also to the long-term socio-economic stability of affected regions. “Communities must prepare for significant recovery efforts, as infrastructure damage and loss of livelihoods can take months, if not years, to resolve,” Dr. Lopez stated during a press briefing on July 21, 2025.

The NDRRMC is coordinating with local government units to ensure that necessary aid reaches those in need. Emergency provisions, including food, water, and medical supplies, are being distributed to evacuation centers, and local authorities are assessing further needs as the situation evolves.

Historically, the Philippines has faced numerous challenges from severe weather conditions, with the nation being one of the most disaster-prone areas in the world. According to the World Bank, the economic impact of natural disasters in the Philippines totals approximately $4 billion annually, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies.

Experts emphasize that climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of storms, making it imperative that both the government and communities invest in resilience-building measures. “Investing in stronger infrastructure and early warning systems can significantly reduce the impact of future storms,” said Dr. Alan Reyes, an environmental scientist at the University of the Philippines.

As the Philippines continues to confront the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Crising, the implications for disaster management policy and community preparedness will be crucial. The NDRRMC and other agencies will need to evaluate and refine their strategies to ensure a more robust response to future natural disasters, preserving lives and mitigating economic losses in the years to come.