Due to shearline
TACLOBAN CITY — Local authorities in Northern and Eastern Samar suspended classes at all levels and government work on Monday, February 9, as heavy rains brought by a shear line caused flooding, landslides, and rough seas.
In Northern Samar, flooding was reported in several barangays in Lope de Vega and Catarman, while a landslide occurred in Barangay Somoge, Catarman. No injuries or property damage were reported, the municipal disaster risk reduction and management office (MDRRMO) said. The Polangi River in Catarman, one of the municipality’s major tributaries, was placed under red-level alert, prompting authorities to warn nearby communities to stay vigilant.
Northern Samar Governor Harris Ongchuan ordered the suspension of classes and work in all provincial government offices following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).
“Offices providing essential services will continue to operate, while work suspension in private offices is at the discretion of employers, considering the safety of their employees,” Ongchuan said.
In Eastern Samar, Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone also suspended all classes and school activities starting 11 a.m. Monday, citing ongoing heavy rains.
“The provincial government emphasized that the suspension aims to protect the safety and welfare of students, teachers, and school personnel amid the ongoing weather disturbance,” he said on his order.
Several towns reported flooding, including Arteche and Maslog, where 51 families or 648 individuals sought shelter in evacuation centers.
In Tacloban, classes were also suspended in the afternoon, sending students to their respective homes following the declaration of a ‘orange rainfall’ which indicates of heavy rains that could result in flooding or landslide incidents.
Local authorities in Matuguinao and San Jorge, Samar province, likewise suspended classes. In Matuguinao, tourist sites such as Maslog Cold Spring and Sulpan Maleho Cave were temporarily closed to protect visitors.
The Philippine Coast Guard ordered the cancellation of sea trips in Northern Samar and parts of Eastern Samar due to rough sea conditions. “All vessels are reminded to take precautionary measures and monitor weather conditions. Voyages will resume once weather and sea conditions improve,” the Coast Guard said.
Authorities urged residents in affected areas to stay alert, follow official advisories, and take necessary precautions as heavy rains continue to impact Eastern Visayas.
JOEY A. GABIETA/ROEL T. AMAZONA
