La Mesa Dam overflows amid rains

MANILA, Philippines — The water level of La Mesa Dam in Quezon City overflowed last night due to rains brought by Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. As of 6 p.m., La Mesa Dam’s water level was at 80.16 meters, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The dam’s spilling level is at 80.15 meters.

As of 8 a.m. yesterday, the dam’s water level was at 78.15 meters.

Water from La Mesa Dam is expected to affect the low-lying areas along the Tullahan River from Quezon City (Fairview, Forest Hills Subdivision, Quirino Highway, Sta. Quiteria and San Bartolome), Valenzuela (Barangay Ligon, North Expressway and La Huerta Subdivision) and Malabon.

“All the residents living in the aforementioned areas, especially those near the river banks, are advised to be alert for possible flooding,” the state weather bureau said.

PITX suspends trips

The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) yesterday announced the suspension of several trips.

In an advisory posted at 11:56 a.m., the PITX management said trips to Baguio City, Dagupan City, San Carlos City and Olongapo City are on hold.

Trips bound for San Jose Nueva Ecija have also been cancelled as the area was deemed impassable as of 7:59 a.m.

According to the PITX, operations of all traditional public utility jeepneys have also been halted until further notice as some areas in Manila are not passable.

Trips to Baclaran-Nichols routes have also been suspended as some areas in Pasay became impassable.

As of 1:34 p.m., the PITX management announced that EDSA Bus Carousel trips are only until Trinoma due to flooding between Muñoz and Balintawak.

Meanwhile, trips bound to Sucat resumed operations as the area was deemed passable as of 10:39 a.m.

PHLPost evacuation centers

The Philippine Postal Corp. issued a public service advisory yesterday afternoon to inform the public they could use PHLPost offices as temporary evacuation centers.

“In response to Typhoon Carina, Postmaster General Mike Planas announces that all Post Office hubs are open to the public for temporary shelter and assistance. If you need help or rescuing due to the typhoon, please head to your nearest Post Office hub. We are committed to your safety and ready to provide support during this challenging time,” PHLPost said. –  Romina Cabrera, Nillicent Bautista, Evelyn Macairan