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Full Breakdown

Tropical Storm Basyang Causes Severe Flooding in Iligan City and Surrounding Areas

2/8/2026, 4:33:03 AM

Widespread Impact of Tropical Storm Basyang

Tropical Storm Basyang has significantly impacted Iligan City and various regions in Northern Mindanao, leading to extensive flooding, landslides, and forced evacuations. The storm, which made landfall over Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, on February 5, 2026, brought heavy rains that overwhelmed local drainage systems and rivers, particularly the Tubod River, causing water levels to rise dramatically. As a result, many barangays, including Mahayahay, Palao, and Hinaplanon, experienced severe flooding, with reports indicating water levels reached up to three feet in some areas.

Evacuations and Rescue Operations

As of February 6, 2026, approximately 1,258 families, totaling around 4,697 individuals, were displaced across 21 barangays in Iligan City, seeking refuge in 23 evacuation centers. The local government, led by Mayor Frederick W. Siao, activated emergency response teams to conduct rescue operations and provide assistance to affected residents. Despite warnings and preemptive evacuation advisories, some residents hesitated to leave their homes, resulting in increased risks during the storm.

Comparisons to Past Disasters

Residents have drawn comparisons between the current flooding and the catastrophic effects of Tropical Storm Sendong in December 2011, which resulted in over 1,000 fatalities. While Basyang's impact was severe, officials noted that the newly constructed flood control measures, including a dike along the Tubod River, mitigated some of the potential damage. However, the flood control systems were still overwhelmed, leading to significant property damage and disruption.

Official Responses and Community Resilience

The Iligan City Council declared a state of calamity on February 6, enabling the use of calamity funds for relief efforts. Mayor Siao emphasized the need for ongoing support from the national government to complete flood control projects that remain unfinished since Sendong. Community members have shown resilience, with many evacuating to safer locations and utilizing local resources for assistance.

Conflicting Reports on Damage and Casualties

Reports indicate varying levels of damage and casualties across the affected regions. In the Caraga region, nearly 391,000 individuals were reported affected, with three confirmed deaths attributed to the storm. However, the situation remains fluid, and ongoing assessments may reveal further impacts as floodwaters recede and recovery efforts continue.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “We are on top of the situation. In the case of barangay Mahayahay, the residents have been given an advice to evacuate days ahead but sad to say, some of them refused to leave their homes,” — Mayor Frederick W. Siao, Iligan City
  • “Neighbors said that the flood was more than Sendong,” — Gee Collantes, resident of Barangay Palao

What's Next

As recovery efforts progress, local authorities are focusing on clearing debris, restoring access to affected areas, and providing ongoing support to displaced families. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has begun distributing assistance, including food packs, to those in evacuation centers. Continuous monitoring of weather conditions and river levels remains critical as the region recovers from the impacts of Tropical Storm Basyang.