Metro Manila drenched by ‘Ondoy-like’ rains, over 200 mm falls in 5 hours

MANILA, Philippines, August 18 ------ Metro Manila was hit by an intense, “Ondoy-like” downpour yesterday, with 201.7 millimeters (mm) of rain dumped over the capital in just five hours, quickly flooding several areas.

Data from the Science Garden Station at the DOST-PAGASA Compound in Quezon City showed 201.7 mm of rain fell from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. as the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, continued to bring heavy rains over Metro Manila.

Rainfall intensified between noon and 2 p.m., with 138 mm recorded in just two hours, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Water levels rose rapidly across several areas, flooding roads and disrupting motorists and residents.

The intense downpour recalled Tropical Storm Ondoy, which dumped 455 mm of rain over Metro Manila in 24 hours on Sept. 26, 2009, triggering widespread and deep flooding across the capital and nearby provinces. Monday’s five-hour total was nearly half of Ondoy’s 24-hour rainfall, underscoring the intensity of the downpour.

To assist affected motorists and residents, the MMDA deployed its Flood Control team to clear obstructions from drainage systems and help floodwaters recede. Meanwhile, MMDA personnel continued monitoring major roads for flooding, road crashes and other incidents through closed-circuit television cameras, allowing authorities to respond quickly and help prevent severe traffic congestion.

Motorists and residents were advised to monitor the MMDA’s flood and traffic updates through its Facebook page or call its 136 hotline.

Source: manilatimes.net