Photo courtesy of DPWH Region III.
QUEZON CITY (PIA) — Response assets of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have been deployed in flood-prone areas amid the threat of Typhoon Nika (Toraji).
DPWH Region 3 Director Roseller Tolentino particularly directed today, Nov. 11, the District Engineering Offices (DEOs) in the provinces of Aurora and Nueva Ecija to remain vigilant for potential flooding and landslides, as Typhoon Nika is forecast to traverse the Aurora-Isabela area.
The DPWH – Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO reported that it has already prepositioned its equipment and manpower to key areas in the municipalities of Bongabon and Gabaldon in preparation for the expected moderate to heavy rainfall from the typhoon.
OIC-District Engineer Robert Jay Panaligan pointed out that these areas were specifically identified due to their history of flooding during past typhoons, which have caused significant disruptions to key transportation routes and community access.
He noted that recent typhoons have repeatedly caused the Baong Spillway to overflow, frequently disrupting travel along the Nueva Ecija – Aurora Road in Bongabon, while rising water levels in Gabaldon’s waterways during the height of Typhoon Kristine contributed to significant flooding in Cabanatuan City on October 24.
Panaligan added that as the PAGASA forecasts another typhoon to follow a similar path as Typhoon Nika, with potential landfall next week, they are closely monitoring the conditions in the areas.
Director Tolentino emphasized that with torrential rains expected, there is a crucial need to assess potential impacts on roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.
The DPWH official noted that floodwaters from Aurora and Nueva Ecija typically drain into the Pampanga River, which may exacerbate flooding risks in low-lying areas of Pampanga and Bulacan. (PIA DMD)
