Baguio Soaked by Almost Three Weeks of Rain in Just 24 Hours, What Travellers Need to Know

Baguio City, the beloved summer capital of the Philippines, is known for its misty mornings and occasional showers. This week, however, the City of Pines experienced something extraordinary. In just one day, it received almost three weeks’ worth of rainfall.

Between the morning of 22 September and 23 September, Super Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa) together with the southwest monsoon poured 327 millimetres of rain over Baguio. That is the amount the city would normally receive across nearly three weeks, all in just 24 hours.

Latest Updates as of 24 September

Image credit: Good morning Baguio | Website

Power interruptions: Around 746,000 households across Northern Luzon have been hit by outages due to Nando’s impact. Some areas continue to face unstable electricity supply.

Road conditions: Key mountain routes such as Kennon Road and parts of Marcos Highway have seen closures or restrictions because of landslides and slippery conditions. Local authorities advise checking advisories before travelling.

Casualties: At least three deaths have been reported so far, connected to Nando, Typhoon Mirasol, and the enhanced southwest monsoon rains.

Evacuations: Several communities across Northern and Central Luzon carried out pre-emptive evacuations due to risks of floods and landslides.

Travel and Commuting Reminders

For travellers and commuters, these conditions are a strong reminder to stay cautious. Power supply may remain unstable, so it is wise to carry portable chargers, flashlights, and other essentials. Always keep an eye on weather advisories and road updates, as conditions in mountainous areas can change quickly.

Driving to Baguio requires extra care, especially with the risk of slippery roads and falling rocks. For those commuting by bus or van, it is best to check with operators before making the trip. Travellers should also keep their itineraries flexible, as outdoor attractions may close suddenly due to weather.

If you are already in Baguio, avoid flood-prone and landslide-prone areas, wear sturdy shoes with good grip, and stay clear of unstable slopes after heavy rain. Packing smart is equally important, with waterproof covers for gadgets, warm clothing, and proper rain gear making a big difference.

Most importantly, safety comes before sightseeing. If the weather keeps you indoors, take it as a chance to explore Baguio’s cosier side, enjoy warm bowls of bulalo, steaming cups of hot chocolate, or simply watch the fog roll over the pine-covered hills from a safe spot.

Takeaway

Super Typhoon Nando may have left Baguio drenched, but it has not diminished the city’s resilience or charm. With careful planning, staying updated, and taking the right precautions, you can still enjoy everything that makes the Philippines’ summer capital special, while travelling safely during typhoon season.