MANILA, Philippines – Metro Manila and surrounding areas have been placed under a flood alert due to continuous rains overnight, the National Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council (NDRRMC) said Tuesday, July 3.
The government is also monitoring the status of dams due to the continuous rains.
In its 10 a.m. update, the NDRRMC said Ipo Dam has exceeded its 100.5-meter spilling level. The water level in the dam is at 101.05 m as of 7 am, the NDRRMC said.
“All residents living in esteros, waterways, [and] rivers are advised to be on alert and monitor the sudden rise of water,” the NDRRMC said early Tuesday.
“Residents of low lying flood-prone areas are also advised to be on alert for sudden rise of flood waters,” the agency added.
Parts of the metropolis have been flooded, reports said, including España, Malate, Quiapo, and the EDSA P. Tuazon underpass in Cubao.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said there is no storm or tropical cyclone within the Philippine area of responsibility, but there is currently an active low pressure area (ALPA) affecting Southern Luzon, including the National Capital Region.
Rainfall levels in the area have been steadily rising, with Pagasa reporting as of 7:25 am rainfall levels of 7.0 mm at Sangley Point in Cavite; 8.4 mm at Science Garden, Quezon City; and 3.1 mm at the Port Area in Manila.
The bureau said rainfall rise will likely continue in the next hour.
Dam status
On the dams, NDRRMC warned: “The water releases from Ipo Dam (are) expected to affect the low-lying areas along the Angat River from Norzagaray and Hagonoy. All residents living in the aforementioned areas are advised to be alert for possible increase in the water level downstream.”
The La Mesa Dam is also approaching its spilling level of 80.15 m. Its water level, as of 7 am, is at 79.37 m. (Read more in NDRRMC’s 10 am bulletin below.)
Parañaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr already suspended classes in elementary and high school as a preventive measure. Several other schools have suspended classes.
Even trains of the Philippine National Railways have been affected by the flooding, with portions of its Sucat and Alabang stations inundated by flood waters.
The NDRRMC advised people to monitor local media for updates, traffic advisories, and class suspensions, which could be announced by local government units or local school administrators.
“For low lying areas, please take note of the high tide later at 8:49 am at 1.44 meters,” the NDRRMC added.
Meanwhile, bad weather has also led to the cancellation of 7 Caticlan-Manila flights. — Rappler.com
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