WARNING: Beware of snakes during floods and typhoons

When floodwater enters your neighborhood, humans aren’t the only ones looking for higher ground.

During typhoons and heavy monsoon rains in the Philippines, snakes may suddenly appear in yards, garages and even inside homes. They are not necessarily “invading”—flooding can force them out of burrows, vegetation, drainage areas and other hiding places.

Many snakes are also capable swimmers, allowing them to move through floodwater until they find somewhere dry. At the same time, rats, frogs and other prey are also displaced, potentially drawing snakes closer to houses.

Watch where you step

Murky floodwater makes snakes difficult to spot. Avoid walking barefoot and wear boots or closed shoes whenever possible.

After the water recedes, be careful when moving furniture, garbage, wood, hollow blocks and other debris. Check dark corners, underneath appliances and outdoor storage areas before reaching inside.

Shake out shoes and boots before wearing them, especially if they were left outdoors or near floodwater.

Don’t try to catch it

If you encounter a snake, keep your distance. Move children and pets away and never poke, corner, grab or attempt to kill it. Contact your barangay, local disaster responders, BFP or appropriate wildlife authorities for assistance.

A frightened or trapped snake may strike in self-defense.

If bitten, go to a hospital

Treat any unidentified snakebite as a medical emergency.

Keep the victim calm and as still as possible and immobilize the bitten limb while arranging immediate transport to a hospital.

The Department of Health warns against cutting or puncturing the bite, sucking out venom, applying ice or using a tight tourniquet. The World Health Organization likewise recommends rapid medical treatment because antivenom may be necessary for serious envenoming.

Never attempt to capture the snake to bring it with you—you could create another victim.

And remain careful even after the flood disappears. Snakes displaced by a storm can remain hidden around homes and debris while their surroundings dry.

During floods, always look before you step, reach or grab.

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