THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported widespread flooding across several Metro Manila roads on June 6th, coinciding with the recent declaration of the rainy season by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
As of 5:00 PM, the MMDA listed numerous affected areas, with varying degrees of flooding impacting traffic flow. Many locations experienced gutter-deep flooding (8 inches), generally passable to all vehicles, while others faced more significant challenges.
These included knee-deep (19 inches) and even half-tire-deep (14-16 inches) flooding, rendering some roads impassable to lighter vehicles.
Areas significantly affected included Quezon City (EDSA Main Ave., EDSA Whiteplains, EDSA after Quezon Ave. Flyover, Araneta E. Rodriguez Ave., Commonwealth Ave., Quezon Ave., A. Bonifacio Avenue, and EDSA Balintawak and Oliveros), Mandaluyong City (EDSA Ortigas, EDSA Highway 54 Mall, and EDSA Shaw tunnel), and Makati City (EDSA Guadalupe Bridge). Taguig City (C5 Kalayaan Service Road), Manila City (España Boulevard), and Malabon City (Governor Pascual Avenue and Letre corner Lazcano Street) also experienced flooding, with Malabon reporting road closures due to the severity of the inundation. The MMDA continuously monitored the situation, providing updates as conditions changed throughout the day.
The flooding highlights the vulnerability of Metro Manila’s infrastructure to heavy rainfall, particularly during the onset of the rainy season.
Pagasa had previously warned of potential flash floods and landslides due to moderate to heavy rains in Metro Manila and other regions.
The incidents underscore the need for improved drainage systems and disaster preparedness measures to mitigate the impact of future rainfall events and minimize disruption to traffic and daily life in the capital region. The MMDA’s prompt reporting and updates are crucial in allowing residents and commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid potentially hazardous areas.
