Heavy rain overnight on 21/7 caused the Marikina River in Manila to overflow its banks, forcing the evacuation of more than 23,000 residents living along the river. Schools and government offices in the city and surrounding provinces were closed today.
Wilmer Tan, an official with the Marikina rescue office, said more than 25,000 people in low-lying areas of Quezon City and Caloocan were also evacuated as the river reached a height of 18 meters.
John Paul Nietes, assistant supervisor at the emergency operations center, reported that an elderly woman and her driver were swept away by floodwaters while crossing a bridge in Caloocan.
"Their car was found last night. Rescue operations are ongoing, but the two individuals have not yet been located. The car windows were broken, so hopefully they managed to escape," he said.
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A flooded street in Manila on 22/7. Photo: Inquirer |
"It's difficult because if the rain continues, the river will rise further. The flooding is very dangerous," said Avelina Lumangtad, 61, a street sweeper in Manila, standing next to a flooded road.
According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), at least three people have died and seven are missing in central and southern Philippines due to flooding since Typhoon Wipha passed close to the country on 18/7.
Around 20 typhoons or super typhoons make landfall or pass near the Philippines each year, devastating areas and impacting the lives of millions.
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A man cycles through a flooded street in Pasay City on 22/7. Photo: Inquirer |
Huyen Le (According to AFP, Inquirer)
