Philippines – 12,000 Displaced by Floods in Zamboanga

Heavy rain, strong winds and storm surge have caused flooding in areas around Zamboanga, Mindanao, Philippines.

Zamboanga City mayor, Beng Climaco, said that at least one person has died. Over 12,000 people (2,448 families) from 12 barangays (municipalities) have been displaced and are currently staying in local public buildings.

Strong winds caused storm surge along coastal areas of Zamboanga on 15 and 16 October. Heavy rain also increased river levels in the area, causing further flooding.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the severe weather was brought about by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

Mayor Beng Climaco directed City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to evacuate people along the shorelines and riverbanks and in low lying areas in 12 barangays.

Rice fields, farmland and fishery infrastructure has suffered severe damage. Schools have been closed in the area. Local media report that at least 200 homes have been destroyed.

Affected districts and displaced families

Vitali – 1,208 families
Mangusu – 187 families
Labuan – 496 families (1 fatality)
Maasin – 17 families
Patalon – 35 families
Limpapa – 62 families
Sinunuc – 51 families
Ayala – 108 families
Talisayan – 50 families
Campo Islam – 75 families
Calarian – 90 families
Recodo – 20 families

Total of 2,448 families affected by flash flood/storm surge with 12,240 individuals.

Pasonanca Dam

Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) said that the Pasonanca Dam was at “critical” level. As of early on 18 October it stood at 76.10 metres, where normal level is 74.2

Zamboanga CDRRMO said that people residing along river banks and low lying areas are advised to evacuate, seek higher grounds and take precautionary measure as to prevent loss of lives and properties.

Tropical Storm Paolo (Lan)

More severe weather could be on its way as Tropical Storm Paolo (international name “Lan”) heads into Philippines area of responsibility (PAR).

PAGASA said, as of 17 October, the center of Paolo was estimated at 655 km east of Guiuan, Eastern Samar with maximum sustained winds of 90kph near the center and gustiness of up to 115kph. It is forecast to move NNE at 10kph.

Heavy rain is likely in Mindanao as well as Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Bicol, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Aurora and the Visayas.