Description
In March and April 2024, Metro Cebu, including Cebu City, Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City and surrounding areas, experienced a severe heatwave exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon. The heat index reached dangerous levels, with temperatures soaring above 34°C (93°F) during the day with minimal temperature drops at night, causing widespread discomfort among residents. Street vendors, residents, and workers, especially in open spaces like markets, struggled with the unbearable heat, with some areas reaching 47°C (116.6°F) on certain days. The heatwave led to multiple concerns, including increased risk of heatstroke, fire hazards due to overloaded electrical grids, and water scarcity.
In addition to the heatwave, a fire broke out in Looc Barangay, specifically in Sitio under the Bridge, Mandaue City, destroying more than 300 structures. Many informal settler families (ISF) were displaced, further highlighting the vulnerability of communities during extreme weather events (https://climatescan.org/projects/13683/detail).
Observations:
- Many residents reported physical discomfort and health concerns, with increased risk of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke.
- The surge in electricity usage led to concerns over potential fire outbreaks, particularly in areas with makeshift homes and high appliance usage.
- A decrease in water supply, with up to 30 million liters lost from the Buhisan Dam, further complicated the situation.
- Local transportation, including habal-habal drivers, also faced difficulties, as the intense heat made people reluctant to travel.
- The fire in Looc Barangay displaced over 300 families, underlining the need for improved fire safety and emergency response in informal settlements.
Help us provide more detailed information about this project by
contributing!