Hoping for Safer Days After the Flood

Sometimes, looking at old pictures brings back memories that we will never forget. These photos remind me of the big flood that affected our place a few months ago. It was not an easy experience for our family, and I am still hoping that we will not have to go through the same situation again.

The water became so deep that some of our neighbors had to find ways to get out of their homes. In one of the pictures, you can see our neighbor looking out from a window because the floodwater was already very high around their house. Seeing this situation in person was really different from just watching flood videos online.

We also had to think about our food supplies. We borrowed a cooler so we could keep the contents of our freezer from spoiling. Those supplies were important to us, especially because we needed to save what we could during those difficult days.

The floodwater also came dangerously close to our electric meter. Eventually, the electricity was turned off. Although it was inconvenient to have no power, I understood that safety had to come first. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and many families could be at risk if proper precautions were not taken.

When the water finally went down a little, the teachers sent alternative learning activities for the children. My youngest daughter spent some of her time drawing and doing her activities at home. While the weather kept us indoors, we found little ways to bond together. We could not go everywhere we wanted, but we still had simple moments worth remembering.

Now, another weather disturbance has recently reminded us how important it is to stay prepared. Typhoon Rosal, internationally named Champi, has already left the Philippine Area of Responsibility, according to PAGASA. Still, I hope everyone continues to follow official weather updates and stays safe.

Christmas is getting closer, and all I wish for is peaceful days for our family and everyone else. I hope the coming storms will not cause more damage, flooding, or suffering in our communities.

We have already experienced enough hardship in the past months. May we finally have time to recover, rebuild, and enjoy the coming holidays without worrying about another devastating flood.

Sometimes, all we can do is prepare, pray, help one another, and hope for better days ahead.

Thank you for reading my post
@usagigallardo015