664 b'gays, mostly in MM, at risk of flash floods

Some 664 barangays across Luzon are at risk of rain-induced landslides, flooding and debris flow from July 3 to 6, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

- By CHRISTINE BOTON

In yesterday's advisory, the MGB attributed the heightened risk to heavy rains brought about by a low-pressure area that continues to enhance the southwest monsoon.

Of the at-risk barangays, 412 are in Metro Manila, including 117 in Manila, 114 in Quezon City, 92 in Caloocan, 33 in Valenzuela, 21 in Malabon, 18 in Navotas, 16 in Marikina and one in Pasig.

"The threshold values were lowered in Metro Manila due to the nature of flooding in highly urbanized areas, wherein rains are not readily absorbed by the ground," the MGB said.

"This leads to increased surface runoff that overwhelms drainage systems and causes flooding in low-lying areas as well as those near waterways," it added.

Another 252 barangays across northern and Central Luzon were also listed as vulnerable: 103 in Cagayan, 15 in Isabela, 68 in Zambales, 14 in Bataan, eight in Apayao, five in Kalinga and 39 in Ilocos Sur.