Manila
Continuous rains caused massive flooding in Metro Manila prompting officials to cancel work in government offices and declare suspension of classes.
According to officials, floods up to a metre and a half in low lying areas of the metropolis prompted authorities to order evacuation of residents in certain areas.
Incessant rains caused by tropical storm Nesat (Philippine Name: “Gorio”), over the past three days have overwhelmed storm drains and brought extensive flooding in parts of Metro Manila. Clogged waterways caused by pollution and undisciplined dumping of trash were also blamed by authorities.
Schools affected
Classes were suspended in most schools in the capital by the government which also ordered cancellation of work at around 1pm yesterday.
“Upon the recommendation of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and in view of the continuing inclement weather brought about by Typhoon Gorio, work in government offices and public schools at all levels in the National Capital Region are hereby suspended effective 1pm today July 27, 2017,” the presidential palace said in a memorandum.
According to presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella, “it was at the private schools’ discretion to suspend classes.”
Class suspensions are frequent from July to October due to heavy rains.
School were also called off for the day by officials in the provinces of Bulacan, Tarlac, Zambales and Bataan.
Certain roads in the metropolis were beyond approach for light vehicles due to floods.
Evacuation orders
In Potreto town in Malabon City and in Valenzuela City, an order was given to residents living in flood-prone areas near the Tullahan River to evacuate.
According the MMDA, floods had subsided in some parts of Metro Manila as of late afternoon allowing the resumption of road traffic.
According to the state weather bureau, PAGASA, Nesat, from a low pressure area, has intensified into a tropical storm and was last located at 10am Manila time at 615km east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan in northeastern Philippines.
“It has slowed down while maintaining its strength,” PAGASA said, while saying the storm is accompanied by winds of 85km/h near the centre and gusts of up to 105km/h.
“It is forecast to move Northwest at 9km/h and will be 505km east southeast of Basco Batanes by today morning.
The Philippines is visited by some 20 cyclones every year, some of which are powerful enough to cause widespread destruction.
