TD Luis, Habagat rains trigger floods across PH

Rains spawned by the low pressure area (LPA) that later intensified into Tropical Depression Luis flooded several areas across the country even before the cyclone entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), forcing dangerous river crossings and stranding hundreds of passengers at ports.

In General Santos City, a man was caught on video risking his life as he crossed the raging waters of the Maca River, according to a report by Jonathan Andal on "24 Oras Weekend" on Sunday.

The man briefly stopped on a concrete pipe in the middle of the river before continuing through the muddy current to reach the other side safely.

He was among residents stranded in the area after heavy rains from the trough of the LPA on Friday swelled the river. The weather disturbance later developed into Tropical Depression Luis.

Residents said they have no nearby bridge, forcing them to wade across the river whenever floodwaters surge from the surrounding mountains.

In Bais City, Negros Oriental, a child and several residents were nearly swept away while crossing the swollen Kabanlutan River. The current was so strong that even water buffaloes struggled to make it across.

Residents in Barangay San Antonio, Sibulan, also braved overflowing waters as they crossed a submerged spillway, while flooding was reported in other parts of Negros Oriental following continuous rains.

Heavy rains also inundated parts of Metro Manila, with floodwaters entering several houses in Taguig City and submerging some roads. Meanwhile, rains associated with Luis were also felt in Isabela.

The rough weather likewise disrupted sea travel.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) temporarily suspended the sailing of vessels in Catanduanes due to unfavorable sea conditions.

At Tabaco Port in Albay, more than 300 passengers were stranded after trips were suspended. Another more than 300 passengers were also stranded in Northern Quezon after the PCG halted sea travel in the area.

PAGASA earlier said Tropical Depression Luis would continue to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing moderate to heavy rains over parts of Luzon and increasing the risk of flooding and rain-induced landslides.

Authorities advised residents in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant, avoid crossing swollen rivers and flooded roads, and heed evacuation orders and other advisories from local officials. — MCG, GMA News