When floodwaters rise or typhoons hit, the danger from electricity becomes even more serious. This has been especially true in recent weeks, as Typhoon Co-May (locally known as Emong) intensified monsoon rains across the Philippines.
As of July 25, 2025, GMA News Online reported that the death toll from Tropical Cyclones Crising, Dante, Emong and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon or Habagat had risen to 25. The recently confirmed deaths were caused by falling trees and electrocution.
Safety advisory
In response to the growing number of weather-related incidents, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a public advisory reminding everyone to be especially cautious around electrical conductors. These are materials that easily carry electricity, something that becomes far more dangerous during storms and floods. The DOE emphasized that the public must be aware of the invisible threats around them, particularly when wading through floodwaters or dealing with damp surroundings inside their homes.
What to avoid during floods
According to the DOE, it is critical to avoid contact with specific materials during rainy weather or flooding. Water, especially when dirty or contaminated, becomes a powerful conductor of electricity. Our bodies, too, are natural conductors, which makes walking through water near electrical sources extremely dangerous.
Metal objects such as gates, railings, staircases, and appliances made of steel or aluminum can deliver electric shocks if they’re connected to a live current. Even objects that appear harmless, like electrical cables, outlets and extension cords, should never be touched when wet. The DOE also cautioned that materials we usually consider safe, such as wood or fabric, can still conduct electricity once they are soaked.
How to stay safe at home
For households still dealing with the impact of the floods, safety must come first. The DOE advises the public to avoid walking through floodwaters unless absolutely necessary, and if they must, to wear rubber boots and avoid touching anything made of metal or anything connected to electricity.
People should never attempt to unplug appliances that have gotten wet or try to turn off outlets and cords that have been submerged. Instead, if something appears even remotely risky, the best course of action is to stay away. Any downed power lines or damaged electrical connections should be reported immediately to local officials or electric providers to avoid further accidents.
As Filipinos continue to recover from recent typhoons, weather experts warn that more storms may be on the way. In a July 25 report by the Daily Tribune, it was noted that three typhoons have already affected the country this year.
The Philippine weather bureau forecasts that a total of 10 to 15 typhoons could hit in 2025. With this in mind, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned that the worst may still be ahead and urged the public to prepare early and prioritize safety as the rainy season continues.