Governments and meteorological agencies across multiple regions have issued serious weather warnings as significant rainfall is expected to impact various areas, prompting officials to advise residents on necessary precautions. With the onset of the rainy season, from Zanzibar to the Philippines, communities are urged to prepare for potential disasters, including flooding and landslides.
Starting with Zanzibar, the government has issued early warnings for the long rains (Masika) anticipated from March to May 2025. During a press briefing, Hamza Hassan Juma, Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office (Policy, Coordination and House of Representatives), shared insights from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority. He indicated the rains are expected to commence within the first two weeks of March, lasting until May's end. Although predicted to be moderate to below average, intense downpours could still pose significant risks.
"While the overall rainfall is expected to be normal or slightly below average, we anticipate short but intense rain episodes," Juma stated, stressing the potential for flooding and infrastructure damage. Residents living in low-lying areas, especially those prone to flooding, particularly within the Urban West Region, were urged to prepare for possible evacuations.
To combat the risk of waterborne diseases, including cholera and diarrhoea, residents are reminded to uphold strict hygiene practices. This includes using clean water, boiling drinking water, and proper waste disposal. Juma also advised individuals involved with marine activities, like fishermen and boat operators, to monitor weather updates before heading out to sea due to the dangers posed by strong winds associated with heavy rains.
Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also raised alarms as it issued orange and yellow warnings for various districts of Odisha. Areas including Cuttack and Bhubaneswar can expect rainfall, with forecasts predicting intense spells and possible hazards linked to lightning and traffic disruptions. Districts such as Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, and Puri are particularly at risk.
The regional centre of the IMD announced, "Moderate rain/thundershower is likely to occur at different districts of the State." Residents have been advised against unnecessary movements, and arrangements for drainage of excess rainfall have been recommended to mitigate flooding.
Notably, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued Weather Advisory No. 10, predicting heavy to intense rainfall affecting areas of Visayas and Luzon. The advisory, released on February 21, 2025, warns of potential flooding and landslides as some regions could see rainfall amounting to between 100 to 200 millimeters. Sorsogon, Southern Leyte, and Surigao del Norte, among others, are bracing for intense weather.
PAGASA cautioned residents to maintain vigilance, particularly those residing in flood-prone or landslide-prone zones, encouraging actions to safeguard life and property. The agency emphasized the difference between Weather Advisories and Heavy Rainfall Warnings. The latter offers more localized and timely information, which is particularly important for communities at risk.
Within the Davao region of the Philippines, heavy rainfall due to easterly winds has led to the suspension of classes and work across several municipalities. According to the local government, as of the morning of February 21, 2025, New Bataan’s council enacted immediate measures to protect children and the general public from the risks associated with the heavy rains.
Mayor Geraldford Balbin ordered the suspension of classes and work across establishments following continuous monitoring of rising water levels. Other municipalities like Monkayo and Compostela followed suit, prioritizing residents’ safety. Overarching warnings about potential flooding, continuous heavy rains, and alerts from the Office of Civil Defense-Davao Region were made clear as authorities urge caution and preparedness.
Looking forward, both the IMD and PAGASA are continuing to monitor the situation, providing regular updates and reminding the public about the importance of disaster preparedness and cooperation. Juma reiterated this need from the Zanzibar government, calling for residents to adhere to official guidelines and take proactive steps to protect themselves.
With rainfall expected to impact significant stretches of land and disrupt everyday life, mitigating risk through collective awareness and action is more important than ever. Communities from Zanzibar to the Philippines are being asked to remain vigilant and responsive as these weather patterns develop, and the importance of following official channels for updates cannot be overstated.
The changing climate is ushering unpredictable weather patterns, but through thorough monitoring and strong community action, residents can work to lessen the adverse effects of these looming storms. Staying informed and prepared will be key to ensuring safety as these weather events intensify.