Olongapo City Rivers Reach Critical Levels Amid Heavy Rains
OLONGAPO CITY – Rivers in this city have risen to critical levels on Monday, July 21, as torrential rains fueled by the southwest monsoon continue to pour. The rising water has raised alarms among local authorities and residents alike.
According to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the water levels under key bridges have reached the exact four word keyphrase. As of 4:30 p.m., the water beneath the Del Rosario Bridge measured 2.5 meters, while the Sta Rita Bridge recorded 2.6 meters. These figures indicate a serious threat of flooding in nearby areas.
Warning Levels Near Critical Mark
Reports also show that the water under Kalaklan Bridge reached 2.4 meters, which is at the warning level and approaching critical status. The city remains under an orange rainfall warning, signaling the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness among residents.
In the past hour, rainfall amounts between 15 to 30 millimeters were observed, and this heavy rain is expected to persist for at least the next two hours, local leaders noted. The ongoing downpour exacerbates the risk of flooding and landslides in vulnerable communities.
Community Preparedness and Response
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation through the flood monitoring stations installed across the city. These stations provide real-time data that help in making timely decisions to protect lives and property. Residents are urged to stay alert, follow advisories, and prepare for possible evacuations if necessary.
“Mag-ingat po tayo sa baha. Bantayan ang mga balita at sundin ang mga abiso ng ating mga lokal na opisyal,” a local resident said, emphasizing the urgency of community cooperation during this critical time.
With the southwest monsoon still active, the city’s disaster office continues to coordinate with barangay officials to ensure swift response and relief operations. Efforts include clearing drainage systems and deploying emergency teams in flood-prone areas.
Outlook and Precautionary Measures
Weather experts forecast that the southwest monsoon will bring intermittent heavy rains over the coming days. This pattern heightens the possibility of further river swelling and flooding in Olongapo City.
Residents are reminded to avoid crossing flooded roads and to prepare emergency kits in case of evacuation. Local authorities are on standby to provide assistance and updates as the situation unfolds.
For more news and updates on weather and disaster preparedness, visit Filipinokami.com.
