Philippines: Floods - Nov 1991

Heavy rains caused by Tropical Storm Uring which struck central Philippines on 5 November 1991 resulted in devastating flash floods in islands of Negros and Leyte. Assessment of damage and needs by local authorities is still underway. Electricity and communications not operational in affected areas. Initial reports provided by Central Office of Civil Defense (OCD) yield following data: casualties: dead 2,155, injured 37, missing 312 (an additional 1,800 persons are unconfirmed missing); population affected: 177,786; damage: 12 bridges totally or partially destroyed. (UN DHA, 7 Nov 1991)

According to local authorities, the effects of storm 'Uring' (international code 'Thelma') were further compounded by extensive denudation of hillsides which caused floods and landslides. Worst hit was Ormoc Port (120,000 inhabitants) on west coast of Leyte island, some 560 km (340 miles) southeast of Manila, which was ravaged by water-borne debris and mud. (UN DHA, 7 Nov 1991)

Death toll increasing as more bodies retrieved, many of which from flood-swept islands off Ormoc. Exact number to be verified, since people buried relatives without informing authorities. […] In Ormoc alone, 3,009 people died and 2,012 are missing, relatively low number of injured reflects sudden nature and strength of the floods, which reached height up to ten feet. […] In Leyte, 12 municipalities are affected and still without electricity. Roads and dams are heavily damaged, 12 bridges are destroyed. In Negros Occidental, six municipalities and three cities are affected, two bridges are destroyed, one bridge damaged. (UN DHA, 11 Nov 1991)

On return from mission to Ormoc, UNDRO delegate reported that with financial support from Presidency, local authorities repaired 70 percent of electricity and, with assistance from technical team dispatched by JICA (Japan International Co-operation Agency), 60 percent of water supply system. Food and medical care are regularly provided (one suspected case of cholera under strict surveillance). JICA's medical team completed two-week operations.9 out of 45 damaged bridges now passable and it is hoped that all damaged infrastructure in Ormoc will be restored by early 1992. Following verification, toll of deaths officially recorded is now at 3,840 (plus 2,000 missing). 3,050 people are injured. (UN DHA, 22 Nov 1991)