Manila affected by severe flooding
7th August 2012
The Philippine capital city has been severely affected by flooding and torrential rains, with up to half of the city underwater
Reports have revealed in some areas of the city flood-waters are neck-deep and over 20,00 people have fled their homes. According to a statement from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, widespread flooding has been reported in both the capital and the surrounding provinces. The statement also warns of potential landslides and flashfloods in mountainous areas and floods in low-lying areas.
Severe flooding and intense rain were also reported in the provinces of Bataan, Pangasinan, La Union, Benguet, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Mindoro.
Several main roads are flooded and power has reportedly been cut off in some areas.
"If we put it in a percentage, at least 50% of Metro Manila is flooded," Jean Navarez from the state weather service told AFP. “There will be heavy rainfall for the next 24 hours. The floods will increase.”
Over the past eight days of heavy rains, mainly caused by Typhoon Saola, the death toll has risen to 53, with more than 268,000 people forced to flee their homes across the country.
Yesterday, four flights were cancelled due to bad weather, the Manila International Airport Authority reported.
Currently, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has offered no advice for British travellers in the affected regions. The United States Embassy in Manila has officially closed: “The embassy is closed today due to excessive flooding in the streets and concern for the safety of our employees and consular applicants.” said Ambassador Harry Thomas Junior.
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