The southwest monsoon (Habagat), intensified by Typhoon Carina, has triggered severe flooding across Pampanga, impacting at least 36 villages in five towns and displacing thousands of residents.
Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda has advised residents in vulnerable, low-lying areas to seek safer ground immediately to avoid potential hazards.
As of 6 PM on July 23, floodwaters in the affected regions have reached depths of three to five feet. In Masantol, 17 villages are submerged, causing extensive damage to homes and property.
Macabebe has seen nine villages flooded, prompting many families to evacuate to higher ground. The City of San Fernando has experienced flooding in five villages, disrupting transportation and daily activities.
Santo Tomas has three villages under water, with residents facing difficulties accessing basic necessities.
Minalin has two villages inundated, leaving many residents stranded and in need of assistance.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is actively assessing the damage and providing aid to affected communities.
Rescue teams have been deployed to assist stranded individuals and evacuate those in danger.
Governor Dennis Pineda, who also chairs the PDRRMO, has called for the suspension of face-to-face classes at all educational levels, both public and private, due to the ongoing flood threat. Work in state-run offices has also been suspended.
The PDDRMO Council Operations Center and Command and Control Center are on heightened alert under Alpha Protocol.
Disaster response equipment and personnel are available 24/7 for immediate action.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued an Orange Warning Level for Pampanga, indicating a high risk of flooding in low-lying areas and along river channels.
"Umaapela po tayo sa ating mga kabalen na apektado ng baha na maging alerto at maghanda sa anumang posibilidad ng malawakang pagbaha dulot ng bagyo. Makipag-ugnayan po kayo kaagad sa ating mga barangay o disaster offices para sa agarang tulong o pag-evacuate kung kinakailangan," the governor said.
According to PDRRMO reports, roads from Apalit to Masantol are currently impassable to light vehicles.
Authorities are urging residents to closely monitor weather conditions and flood levels as heavy rains persist.
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