Rains, clogged waterways worsen flooding

LA UNION — La Union has largely recovered from recent typhoons and flooding, but prolonged heavy rains, clogged waterways, high tides and improper garbage disposal continue to worsen flooding in vulnerable areas, Gov. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega said.

In an interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE, Ortega said the province experienced nearly two weeks of rain, overwhelming some rivers, canals and drainage systems.

He said La Union’s location also contributes to flooding, as water from higher areas in Benguet eventually flows downstream into the province.

“We are the ones who are at the bottom, they are the ones who are at the top,” Ortega said.

Areas such as Rimos 3, 4 and 5 in San Juan are particularly prone to flooding because of their low elevation. High tides can further delay the outflow of floodwaters.

Ortega described the recent flooding primarily as pluvial flooding, caused by intense rainfall overwhelming waterways and drainage systems. He noted that floodwaters in many areas receded shortly after the rain stopped, indicating that drainage systems were generally functioning.

However, he acknowledged that clogged waterways remain a problem.

“When we investigate, it’s clogged because of the garbage that people are throwing,” he said, urging residents to dispose of their waste properly.

Landslides cleared

Prolonged rains also triggered landslides in mountainous areas, but Ortega said most affected areas had already been cleared.

The provincial government deployed available equipment, while private groups provided additional machinery to speed up clearing operations.