Metro Manila Submerged by Localized Thunderstorms, Disrupting Traffic

MANILA, Philippines — Several areas in Metro Manila were submerged in floodwaters on Friday afternoon, Sept. 18, due to heavy rainfall brought by localized thunderstorms, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported. In an advisory, the MMDA reported the following flooded areas, as of 1:57 p.m.: Quezon City Gutter-deep, up to 8 inches (passable to motorcycles and light vehicles), portions of EDSA-Kamuning northbound and southbound, Kalayaan Avenue corner P. Tuazon, Aurora Boulevard corner Gilmore Avenue, and other areas in Quezon City. Other flooded areas reported by the MMDA included: Pasig City – C5 Service Road southbound near Taguig City, and portions of Ortigas Avenue. Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that the thunderstorms were localized and were affecting Metro Manila and surrounding provinces. “The public is advised to take precautionary measures,” the state weather bureau said. As of Friday afternoon, PAGASA said that the southwest monsoon (habagat) was not the cause of the heavy rains. The bureau said that the low-pressure area (LPA) was still outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). The MMDA has been monitoring the situation and coordinating with local government units (LGUs) to address the flooding. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather advisories and take necessary precautions. Flooding in Metro Manila is a perennial problem, often exacerbated by heavy rains, inadequate drainage systems, and urban development. The MMDA continuously works to mitigate the effects of flooding through various infrastructure projects and disaster preparedness measures.