Continuous heavy rains have led to significant flooding in Ilocos Sur and surrounding areas, prompting preemptive evacuations and suspension of work and classes.

Ilocos Sur’s Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is on high alert due to ongoing heavy rains from upland municipalities and the Cordillera region. These rains are causing river systems to overflow, increasing the risk of flooding in the province's First District.

As of July 23, 2024, at least 400 individuals, or 88 families, in 11 towns in Ilocos Sur have been evacuated preemptively.

"At least nag-preemptive evacuation na sila. Hindi na hinintay na magkaroon pa ng baha sa kani-kanilang lugar bago pa mag-evacuate," Ron Arquelada, Ilocos Sur DRRM Officer, said.

In Sta. Lucia, several creeks have overflowed, and some roads and spillways have become impassable. These do not include the main roads. 

Due to the bad weather, classes and government work have been suspended in the area.

PDRRMO is monitoring three major river systems in the province, which are currently at normal levels.

"Pag-red na delikado na para dito sa mga low lying areas natin, kasi possible na magkaroon na ng malawakang flooding lalo dito sa Metro Vigan," Arquelada said.

In Caoayan, the southwest monsoon has eroded protective barriers reportedly, causing soil erosion.

"May Habagat na naman kaya nagigiba na ang proteksyon namin... inaanod na ang lupa," Albert Quilenderino Sr., Barangay Chairman of Villamar, said.

Residents said floodwaters have reached depths exceeding two people in some areas, yet many are reluctant to evacuate, preferring to safeguard their property.

In Ilocos Norte, two families totaling 14 individuals were evacuated to a shelter on July 23 after flooding occurred in Barangay 2, Laoag City.

The flood was caused by a creek overflow due to heavy rain.

In Barangay Ba-Rit, a landslide buried a house partially.

The Laoag City CDRRMO reported no injury from the landslide, and residents have been assisting in clearing the debris.

In Batanes, high sea waves and intermittent rain have been reported at Basco Port and other areas. The provincial government has suspended work in government offices from July 24 to July 25.