Residents of several barangays in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte are advised to prepare for evacuation as the water level in the Dapitan River continues to rise, as of morning on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

According to the local government, the water level at the Ilaya Bridge marker has reached the orange level, which means preparation for evacuation is advised.

The barangays advised for preemptive evacuation include Ilaya, Burgos, Oyan, Ba-ao, Barcelona, Tamion, Diwaan, Opao, and Maria Uray.

The local government added that all barangays situated along the Dapitan River are also urged to be on high alert for possible evacuation.

Authorities said forced evacuation will be implemented if the water level reaches the red level.

In an executive order issued by Mayor Evelyn Uy, barangay officials are directed to initiate their evacuation protocols, especially those near the bridges, low-lying, and high risk-prone areas.

These protocols include spearheading the evacuation process and preparing evacuation centers through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), among others.

The order also said that if residents refuse to leave their homes or if evacuees attempt to return home without authorization, law enforcers may use physical force.

Due to bad weather conditions and the rising water levels in the river, classes from preschool to Grade 12 have been suspended. School heads and teachers are advised to ensure the safety of students during their dismissal and in sending them back home.

The local government said the bad weather experienced in the city was due to the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).