Severe flooding caused by multiple weather systems has left at least seven people dead and over 1.4 million residents affected across the Philippines as of Wednesday, with capital city Manila declaring a state of calamity.
Over the recent days, the Philippines has been battered by heavy rains from several weather systems, including Typhoon Wipha, resulting in widespread flooding. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Wednesday morning, at least seven people have died, eight are missing, and more than 1.41 million residents have been affected nationwide.
On Tuesday, the capital city of Manila declared a state of calamity, with daily life severely disrupted.
In Metro Manila, major roads have been completely submerged, with floodwaters reaching the height of car tires.
On Tuesday morning, the Philippine National Weather Service issued its highest-level red warning for rainfall for several areas, including the capital.
Although Typhoon Wipha has moved away, the intensified southwest monsoon and a new low-pressure area in east of the country have kept the rains coming.
Meteorologists have predicted rainfall totals of 100 to 200 millimeters in Manila and other regions on Tuesday and Wednesday. The presidential office has suspended work and classes in these regions affected to minimize the impact of the flooding.
While some children have turned flooded streets into makeshift swimming pools, the ongoing rains have made life difficult for many residents.
"It's very difficult for us. To be honest, for me, for the commuters, it's very hard to pass and go through my work. And actually, as you can see, the flood is going high," said a Manila local.
Urban flooding after heavy rain has become a common occurrence in Metro Manila, with many residents calling on the government to focus on drainage and flood control projects to reduce the impact of future floods.
Devastating flooding in Philippines leave 7 people dead, affect over 1.4 million residents
Devastating flooding in Philippines leave 7 people dead, affect over 1.4 million residents
Devastating flooding in Philippines leave 7 people dead, affect over 1.4 million residents
