WHAT IS
STORM SURGE?
STORM SURGE
the abnormal rise of seawater above the
normal tide level, caused primarily by strong
winds and low atmospheric pressure from
tropical cyclones or typhoons
STORM SURGE
It can flood coastal areas
rapidly and with
devastating force.
WHAT CAUSES
STORM SURGE?
CAUSES:
Strong winds: These push ocean water toward the
shore.
Low atmospheric pressure: Storms reduce air
pressure, allowing the sea surface to rise.
Tidal conditions: If a surge coincides with high tide,
flooding becomes even more severe.
Coastal topography: Shallow coastlines and wide
continental shelves amplify surge height.
EFFECTS OF
STORM SURGE
EFFECTS:
Extreme flooding: Water levels can rise over 20 feet
in severe cases.
Infrastructure damage: Roads, bridges, and
buildings can be destroyed.
Erosion: Shorelines and natural barriers are worn
away.
Loss of life and displacement: Rapid flooding can
trap people and force mass evacuations.
WHAT TO DO: BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER
STORM SURGE
Before a Storm Surge
Stay updated with weather alerts from
agencies like PAGASA.
Know your area's evacuation routes and safe
zones.
Prepare an emergency kit: food, water,
flashlight, medicine, documents.
Secure your home: elevate valuables, reinforce
doors/windows.
Evacuate early if advised—don’t wait for the
water to rise.
DURING STORM SURGE
Stay calm and act quickly.
Evacuate if advised: Don’t wait—move to
higher ground or designated shelters.
Avoid floodwaters: They may be contaminated
or hide dangerous debris.
•Stay indoors: If evacuation isn’t possible,
shelter in the highest safe room.
Turn off utilities: Shut off gas, electricity, and
water if flooding is imminent.
Listen to authorities: Keep a battery-powered
radio or phone tuned to updates.
AFTER STORM SURGE
After the Storm Surge Safety doesn’t end when the water
recedes.
Wait for official clearance: Don’t return home until authorities
say it’s safe.
Inspect your home cautiously:
Watch for structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical
hazards
Wear protective gear when cleaning up
Avoid using contaminated water: Boil or treat water before
drinking.
Document damage: Take photos for insurance or disaster
relief claims.
Seek help if needed: Contact local disaster response teams
or relief centers.
Storm surges are one of the most dangerous and
destructive natural phenomena associated with
tropical cyclones and severe storms. They occur
when powerful winds push seawater onto land,
causing sudden and extreme coastal flooding. The
impact can be catastrophic—damaging
infrastructure, displacing communities, and
endangering lives.
Understanding the causes and effects of storm
surges is essential for preparedness. By staying
informed, following evacuation orders, and
implementing coastal defenses, communities can
reduce the risks and protect lives. Ultimately,
storm surge awareness and proactive planning are
vital to building resilience in vulnerable coastal
regions.
REFERENCES
National Hurricane Center – Storm Surge Overview :
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/surge/
PAGASA – Storm Surge Information :
https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/information/storm-surge
Envista Forensics – Causes and Impacts of Storm Surge :
https://www.envistaforensics.com/knowledgecenter/insights/articles/understanding-flooding-and-storm-surgecauses-impacts-and-prevention-strategies/
National Geographic – Storm Surge Resource:
https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/storm-surge/
THE END