Floods hit parts of Metro Manila; 2 universities suspend classes

MANILA, Philippines - Heavy rains swamped several areas in Metro Manila on Saturday afternoon, snarling traffic and forcing at least two universities to suspend classes.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that A. Bonifacio Avenue in Quezon City was under waist-deep floodwaters, blocking vehicles coming from the North Luzon Expressway.

The MMDA also reported flooding in several areas in Manila including España Avenue, Abad Santos, Maceda and Antipolo streets and other areas in Quezon City including Araneta Avenue, Balintawak, Biak na Bato along Quezon Avenue and Centris mall area under the Metro Rail Transit, also in Quezon Avenue.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had warned that a thunderstorm may form on Saturday over Metro Manila and Luzon provinces, including Rizal, Batangas, Zambales and Bulacan.

The University of Sto. Tomas and Far Eastern University suspended classes due to the flooding.