Metro Manila hit by intense rainfall, flooding rivals Ondoy levels

Metro Manila experienced intense rainfall on Monday, absorbing 201.7 millimeters in just five hours. This deluge led to significant flooding across the capital, inundating areas unaccustomed to such water levels. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority reported that the heaviest downpour occurred between noon and 2 p.m., with 138 mm falling in just two hours.

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More than two-thirds of the five-hour total, or 138 mm, fell within just two hours from noon to 2 p.m.

To put the intensity into perspective, Monday's five-hour rainfall was nearly half the amount recorded during Tropical Storm Ondoy in 2009, which dropped 455 mm over a full 24-hour period. Images circulating online depicted volunteers using plastic boats to navigate flooded streets, highlighting the severity of the situation. Some residents noted that areas like EDSA-Shaw, rarely flooded, were submerged.

The threat of further flooding persists as the southwest monsoon continues to affect the region. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a yellow rainfall warning for Metro Manila on Tuesday, indicating a possibility of flooding in low-lying areas. Forecasts predict 50 to 100 mm of rain for the capital on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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one social media user said it was the first time they had seen a flooded section of EDSA-Shaw reach that extent

Authorities have taken measures to mitigate the impact, with flood control teams clearing drainage systems. Additionally, schools in Metro Manila and 14 other provinces were directed to shift to alternative learning modes, and government offices were advised to adopt alternative work arrangements to ensure public safety amidst the continuous heavy rains.

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meaning flooding was possible in flood-prone areas.