By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Persistent rains triggered flooding and a landslide in parts of the Caraga region, disrupting road travel and classes as authorities warned residents to remain on alert for possible flash floods and more landslides.
In Lanuza town in Surigao del Sur, a landslide struck a section of the national highway in Barangay Cabanahan after days of rain, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The agency said clearing operations were immediately carried out, but the road remains one-lane passable up to Junction Cortes, forcing motorists to slow down while crews continue to monitor the area for possible additional soil movement.
Authorities warned travelers to exercise caution as continuous rainfall could trigger more landslides along the route.
Heavy rains linked to a trough of a low-pressure area also caused flooding in several areas in Butuan City, affecting road access in some barangays.
According to the city’s public information office, floodwaters in Barangay Mahay reached about 1 foot and 9 inches, making the road impassable for motorcycles and low-clearance vehicles.
Water levels also rose along the Diversion Road in Barangay Mahay, where about 5 inches of water spilled onto the roadway after drainage canals overflowed.
In Barangay Ampayon, floodwaters measuring four to five inches were reported but remained passable to all types of vehicles, authorities said.
Due to the continuing rains, the city government suspended classes on Monday in all public and private schools in Butuan City.
However, classes resumed Tuesday in Tandag City, after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) lifted the yellow rainfall warning earlier in the morning.
PAGASA earlier warned that moderate to occasionally heavy rains could still affect Surigao del Sur within several hours due to a trough of a low-pressure area affecting parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.
The state weather bureau said cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms are expected across Caraga Region, raising the risk of flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous communities.
Local disaster officials have urged residents to closely monitor weather updates and avoid areas prone to flooding and landslides.
Meanwhile, in Tandag City, authorities launched clearing operations along the river dike and beneath the Tandag City Bridge in Barangay Dagocdoc to prevent debris buildup and possible river overflow that could trigger flooding in nearby communities.
The operation involved personnel from the DPWH, the city government, and barangay officials working to ensure the safety of residents as rains continue to affect parts of northeastern Mindanao.
Motorists across the region were advised to take precautionary measures and avoid flooded roads to prevent accidents and vehicle breakdowns.
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