THE THREAT posed by the El Niño phenomenon in Western Visayas is multifaceted. Extreme heat can render materials more combustible, leading to an increased risk of various types of fires, including those involving rubbish, grass, sugarcane, and structures. The region, particularly highly urbanized areas like Iloilo and Bacolod, faces a challenging period where conventional firefighting resources, especially water, are limited.
One of the most pressing concerns facing the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is the scarcity of water for firefighting. The BFP’s usual reliance on deep wells and rivers could be compromised during severe drought conditions. In Iloilo City, while the use of saltwater from the Iloilo River is a contingency plan, it comes with significant drawbacks, such as the potential to exacerbate fires and damage firefighting equipment due to its salinity. This situation underscores the need for innovative solutions and alternative firefighting methods.
It is good that the BFP includes in its El Niño strategy special measures for extinguishing fires at dumpsites, which are notoriously challenging due to the presence of methane gas. However, these efforts, requiring special chemicals and techniques, are not only resource-intensive but also financially demanding. This highlights the broader economic impact of El Niño-induced fires, which extends beyond immediate firefighting costs.
Public cooperation is another crucial element in this battle against fire risks. Maintaining clean surroundings and avoiding practices like burning garbage near houses are simple yet effective preventive measures. These practices are particularly important in urban areas, where dense populations and structures can lead to rapid fire spread.
As we look at the broader regional weather patterns, the weather forecast of below-normal to way below-normal rainfall from January to April 2024, with conditions expected to normalize only by May or June, paints a grim picture. This prolonged dry spell not only raises the risk of fires but also the specter of drought conditions that can strain resources and affect various sectors, from agriculture to urban living.
The BFP’s foresight in preparing for sugar cane fires, which typically peak between March and May, is another example of the necessary targeted approach in dealing with El Niño’s effects. It’s crucial that these preparations are matched by equally vigorous efforts from local governments and stakeholders to mitigate the broader impacts of this challenging climatic phenomenon.
The success of these efforts hinges on collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and individual citizens. It’s a collective battle against a common adversary, where preparedness, cooperation, and innovation are key to ensuring the safety and resilience of Western Visayas.
