Flash floods, mudslides hit Ifugao province

Policemen in Banaue town, Ifugao province try to prevent a van from getting swept away in a flash flood that was triggered by the heavy rains on Thursday, July 7. (Photo from the Facebook page of Ifugao 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company)

BAGUIO CITY—Heavy rains triggered flash floods and mudslides in parts of Ifugao province on Thursday, authorities said.

According to the police and local disaster officials, torrential rain and strong winds were experienced in the province, especially in Banaue town.

Residents in Banaue appealed for help as the torrent of muddy water rushed downslope.

The flash floods rendered some roads impassable, and authorities were verifying reports that the mudslides destroyed some houses.

In an advisory at 5 p.m. on Thursday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said moderate to occasionally heavy rains were experienced over Ifugao and other parts of northern Luzon due to the southwest monsoon.

Residents living near mountain slopes were cautioned against landslides, mudslides, rock slides, and flash floods.

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JPV/abc