Kristine triggers floods in CamSur, turns roads into gushing rivers

October 23 ------ Heavy rainfall brought by Tropical Storm Kristine triggered massive flooding in the province of Camarines Sur, turning low-lying areas into gushing rivers and forcing the evacuation of thousands into safer grounds. The province, along with several others in the Bicol region, was placed under Signal No. 2 as Kristine continued to pick up strength while at sea.  It is expected to make landfall on Wednesday or Thursday. 

According to a report by John Consilta on "24 Oras," Camarines Sur province experienced heavy rains on Tuesday afternoon causing some canals in Naga City to overflow. Some low-lying areas appeared to be rivers due to the flood. Several establishments like eateries and houses in Pili town were also flooded. “Tumataas po talaga. Mahirap po kasi lalo na yung leptospirosis, tapos hindi kami makapag negosyong maayos gaya nito, apektado po,” a resident said. 

Two spillways overflowed due to heavy rains causing a strong current in Del Gallego town. This caused some residents to be stranded as it is the only road they can use. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also deployed personnel in areas that usually experienced flooding to help with the evacuation. “With support ng province of the Camarines Sur, willing silang ipagamit din yung water assets nila na imamand ng Philippine Coast Guard and then buong Camarines Sur po is iaacommodate ng PCG,” said Ensign Eidderf Olea, Camarines Sur Coast Guard Public Information officer. 

In Baao town, the flood impeded traffic. The evacuation of residents has started in flood-prone and critical areas in the province, such as Cadlan, Pili, and Camarines Sur. A forced evacuation was also in place in some areas near the river, especially since Kristine is expected to come closer to the province. “Yung goal namin bago mag 6 p.m., lahat ng critical families nai-safe na para by bukas yung palaging goal ng Camsur na zero casualty ay ma-attain,” said Luzena Bermeo, department head on Camarines Sur environment disaster management and emergency response office. 

Albay province was earlier placed in a state of calamity due to flooding in Polangui and Malilipot towns. In Guinobatan, a road was impassable due to a landslide. Some houses were also damaged. The PHIVOLCS warned of possible lahar flow from Mayon Volcano due to heavy rains. According to the Camarines Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, a total of 1,300 families were evacuated. 

Source: gmanetwork.com