MANILA, Philippines – The city government of Marikina is now enforcing “forced evacuation” of residents near the Marikina River which has already breached 19 meters as of 8 a.m., It had been declared under Alert Level 4 after it reached the critical level of 18 meters as early as 6:42 a.m.
Continuous heavy rains are expected until this afternoon, according to PAGASA, which means the water level in Marikina river would continue to rise. As of 8:30 a.m., the Marikina river water level was recorded at 19.4 meters.
Under an Alert Level 4, the local government will conduct forced evacuation of any remaining residents living near the river. Alert Level 4 is the Critical Level, and is adopted when the water is 18 or more meters above sea level.
The Marikina City government has already advised residents to clear the roads for the use of rescue trucks and vehicles. It has also aired an appeal to private individuals and companies which have trucks to help in the evacuation in the areas around the Marikina River, and in the Tumana area. A tweet from the Marikina City Public Information Office also appealed to those who have rubber or rescue boats to please coordinate with rescue 161 of the Marikina City government.
The city government’s rescue hotline numbers 161 and 6460427, 6462436 to 38 for rescue. All affected residents are advised to the nearest evacuation sites in the city, or contact the Marikina city government’s hotline numbers.