Climate and Severe Weather in the Philippines

  • -By Rachel Pui Shi Loh, ‘18C, Economics and International Studies 

Developing countries are most vulnerable to climate change impacts due to the dearth in technological and financial resources. The Philippines is among the countries most vulnerable because of its heavy exposure to extreme weather events. One such event took place on November 8, 2013. Regarded as one of the strongest storms in recorded history, Typhoon Haiyan wreaked havoc on the lives of Filipinos.  

Development factors have made it difficult for the Philippines to prepare for natural disasters. Research has found low levels of knowledge about storm surges among the country’s population. Before Haiyan, official information was too technical, underestimated the typhoon’s gravity, and discouraged evacuation.