By Rowena Cruz A section of the Maharlika Highway near Canda, Lopez, Quezon is currently impassable due to flooding. (Photo from Atorni Mik...
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| A section of the Maharlika Highway near Canda, Lopez, Quezon is currently impassable due to flooding. (Photo from Atorni Mike/FB) |
LOPEZ, Quezon - Typhoon Kristine has unleashed its fury on Luzon, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The powerful storm, which slammed into Isabela earlier today, brought torrential rains and surging floodwaters that have transformed a section of the Maharlika Highway in Canda, Lopez, Quezon, into a raging torrent.
This critical roadway, a vital link between Bicol and Manila, is now impassable for most vehicles, leaving scores of travelers stranded. The Canda Ibaba Viaduct is submerged under over 0.9 meters (35 inches) of water, making it impossible for all but the largest trucks and buses to navigate the treacherous route.
Responding swiftly to the crisis, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary for Public Safety, Serafin P. Barretto Jr., CESO IV, visited the inundated viaduct today October 24, 2024 to assess the situation and offer support to those stranded. He was accompanied by Mayor Rachel Ubana, BFP Lopez FINSP Jonathan Albos, and members of the Philippine National Police.
"This is a critical situation," Governor Angelina "Doktora Helen" Tan stated in an interview this morning. "Typhoon Kristine has caused the floodwaters to rise with alarming speed, making the highway treacherous even for large vehicles."
"Despite the absence of rain, the water level continues to rise," she added. "It's already more than a meter deep, making the highway impassable even for large vehicles."
This unusual flooding, attributed to an exceptionally high tide, has brought traffic to a standstill, stranding countless travelers heading to both Bicol and Manila. While floodwaters in other areas have begun to recede, allowing some displaced families to return home, the situation in Canda remains critical.
Governor Tan reported that nearly 9,000 families, estimated to be around 30,000 individuals, were initially evacuated. The flooding has not only displaced thousands but has also caused significant damage to homes and agricultural lands, with rice and vegetable crops severely affected.
Local authorities, including the STAN Office of Lopez, are working tirelessly to provide relief to those affected. Food and essential supplies are being distributed to stranded travelers and evacuees. While motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Updates on the situation and road conditions will be provided as they become available.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warns that Typhoon Kristine, although moving northwestward, will continue to bring heavy rainfall to large swaths of Luzon. Areas in the typhoon's path can expect further flooding and landslides. PAGASA has issued advisories urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Local authorities, including the STAN Office of Lopez, are working tirelessly to provide aid to those affected. Food, water, and essential supplies are being distributed to stranded travelers and evacuees at shelters. The Local Government of Lopez is coordinating with various agencies to expedite relief efforts, deploying rescue teams to reach those stranded and working to clear debris and reopen roads as soon as conditions allow.
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