Thousands were evacuated in Butuan City amid floods after the Agusan River overflowed due to heavy rains brought about by a low pressure area and the tail end of a cold front.
Local officials reported that a total of 2,751 families from 17 barangays were evacuated because of the floods.
According to local officials, the water level in the Agusan River has already reached a height of 3.76 meters, or more than double the normal level of 1.1 meters.
The affected barangays were Golden Ribbon, Mahogany, Buhangin, Agao, Baan, Baan Km. 3, Bading, Obrero, Maon, Agusan Pequeno, Pangabugan, Port Poyohon, Sto Nino, Maug, Banza, Florida and Tungao.
Residents in these barangays were ordered to seek shelter in several schools and covered courts.
The Butuan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council also advised residents living near the rivers to voluntarily evacuate.
Authorities are now conducting relief operations in the evacuation centers.
Meanwhile, ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya also distributed relief goods to 700 families affected by flooding in the town of Loreto, Agusan Del Sur.
Weather bureau PAGASA said moderate to occasionally heavy rains will continue to affect Butuan City and the rest of CARAGA region.
This story first appeared on ABS-CBN News Online and republished with permission.
