La Mesa Dam overflows; residents in low-lying areas urged to evacuate

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned residents in river banks and low-lying areas as the La Mesa Dam approached above overflow level Tuesday afternoon.

As of 5 PM, the water level at La Mesa Dam reached 80.16 meters, above its spilling level of 80.15 meters.

Should the dam overflow, excess water will flow into the Tullahan River, which passes through several flood-prone communities in Metro Manila.

Expected to be affected are Quezon City, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela.

PAGASA also said that road and street flooding in several areas due to impounding, poor or clogged drainage systems and higher tide levels could render some roads impassable.

The Quezon City government on Tuesday has declared a state of calamity due to the continuous rains and severe flooding brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat).

Meanwhile, the Upper Wawa Dam is also at the overflow level as of Tuesday afternoon. It has reached its spilling level of135 meters.

The Upper Wawa Dam started overflowing Monday evening. Should it spill, it is expected to affect some parts of Rizal (Rodriguez, Antipolo, and San Mateo), Quezon City, Marikina, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Manila, and San Juan.