Marikina River now at critical level, immediate evacuation enforced

MANILA, Philippines–Amid the heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm “Mario,” the Marikina government raised early Friday alert level four, or the critical level, over the Marikina River, prompting residents in the area to evacuate immediately.

The Marikina City Public Information Office said over Twitter that the river’s water level went up at 18 meters as of 6:42 a.m. with all floodgates open.

Alert level one means at least 15 meters above sea level;  two, there is at least 16 meters above sea level which calls for “preparedness;” three is 17 meters above sea level and calls for “evacuation;” and four or the critical level or at least 18 meters above sea level calls for “forced evacuation.”

Marikina Mayor Del de Guzman also ordered class suspension in all levels in the city early Friday.

Some roads in Marikina, meanwhile, are not passable due to floods, according to the Marikina PIO.

The flooded roads include G. Fernando Avenue and Agora Complex, Sumulong – Balanti (Katipunan Extension), FVR road, streets of Aquamarine, Lilac,General Ordoñez (near Victoria School) and roads near Freedom Park.