4. Be prepared…everywhere

Getting stuck in the office is a major concern, what with the surge on transport apps every time it so much as drizzles. The fares get ridiculous the stronger the rain gets, making it practically impossible to get home without spending half your sweldo. This just means we need to be just as prepared at work as we are at home.

So stock up on canned goods and drinks, but if you aren’t able to do that, collect the hotline numbers of the closest restaurants and make sure to tip the hardworking delivery man.

If staying in the office isn’t an option for you but you have no means of going home, ask the officemate who lives relatively near you and ask if you can hitch a ride. You can just pay for gas or cover their lunch the next day.

You can also ask your friends or officemates who live near the office if you can sleep over for the night. Kapal na kung makapal—do you really want to bunk in the office with the resident mumu?

3. On the road

One of the worst places to get stranded during La Nina is on the road. During the past year, public roads (especially in the Metro) have been prone to WTF Level flooding, which is why thousands have spent the most of their time stuck in traffic, wading through urban floodwater and turning EDSA into the largest parking lot in the country.
Study shortcuts and alternative routes beforehand. Plot your own map and check the news diligently for updates.

If you don’t have your own vehicle and have to use public transportation (lord bless your soul), make sure your power bank is fully charged—if you don’t have one yet, it’s time to invest. Also, never leave your home or workplace without extra cash for unexpected instances where you have to take a (ridiculously overpriced) taxi or crash at a motel.

But whether you’re in a car or a PUV, a rainy day playlist is always, always a must to keep yourself sane. You can pass the time by pretending you’re in your own dramatic music video. If you don’t have any music though, you can always turn your fellow passengers into newfound friends and share your life’s inspirations and aspirations. Or not, and use the time to catch up on sleep.

2. At home

During instances of extreme downpour and you’re stuck at home, you definitely have to prepare the essentials in #8 AND an emergency kit containing food, water, radio, batteries, power bank and your most important possessions. Prepare your house for easy evacuation, too. If the downpour becomes alarming, move what you can to the upper levels of your home—they aren’t called flash floods for nothing, after all.

1. Patience

This one is probably the most important thing on this list. No matter what situation you’re in—stuck in traffic, at home or on the road—patience is key, especially if you want to retain your sanity. Stay a step ahead and count yourself lucky.

Got any other tips for the shift in season? Sound off in the comments below!

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