Heavy rains trigger flash floods in parts of Mindanao; two dead

Despite the absence of any storm, continuous rain has caused flash floods in parts of Mindanao, leading to the deaths of two individuals who were swept away while bathing in a waterfall.

In a report by Chino Gaston for 24 Oras, residents of Barangay Kakub in Koronadal City were startled after witnessing a woman being carried away by a raging stream. 

According to locals, the sudden surge of water came from a nearby waterfall and its adjoining creek. 

A few minutes later, the woman’s body was found roughly two kilometers downstream.

Shortly afterward, a man was also found lifeless in the creek. Residents quickly worked together to retrieve him. Both victims sustained head injuries and other wounds, likely caused by being slammed into rocks and debris as they were swept by the current.

Initial investigations revealed that the two—identified as acquaintances, one a teacher and the other a delivery rider—were bathing in the upper part of the creek when a sudden surge of water occurred. Authorities believe the rapid rise in water level was caused by heavy rainfall and worsening weather conditions.

In Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, strong currents rendered some roads impassable. Heavy rains caused a nearby creek to overflow, submerging roads and leaving motorists stranded for over an hour.

Meanwhile, in Barangay Lasang, Davao City, parts of the National Highway became impassable due to the overflow of the Licanan River. The situation worsened as it coincided with high tide. More than 20 families living near the riverbanks in Sitios Licanan, Aris, Lituan, and Virgo were affected.

Floodwaters also inundated Barangay Bunawan Proper, displacing around 69 families.

State weather bureau PAGASA said the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is responsible for the current bad weather affecting Mindanao. Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and take necessary precautions. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA Integrated News