As relentless rain from the Carina-enhanced Habagat submerged Metro Manila in floods on Wednesday, the state weather bureau PAGASA continued to issue color-coded “rainfall warnings.”
PAGASA has used this system since 2012 to help communities prepare for possible disasters.
The rainfall warning system is classified into three levels: Yellow, Orange, and Red.
Red Rainfall Warning
Associated Hazard: Serious Flooding in Flood-Prone Areas
This is the highest warning level, indicating that areas under this warning are experiencing 30 mm or more rainfall in an hour, which is expected to continue for the next two hours. Under a Red Rainfall Warning, residents are warned of possible “serious flooding,” especially in low-lying areas. Coastal towns and cities with low elevation are advised to evacuate immediately.
Orange Rainfall Warning
Associated Hazard: Flooding is Still Threatening
Areas under the orange warning experience intense rainfall of 15 to 30 mm in an hour, expected to continue for the next two hours. There is a significant threat of flooding in low-lying areas and near rivers. The public must remain alert and prepare for potential evacuation.
Yellow Rainfall Warning
Associated Hazard: Flooding in Flood-Prone Areas
This level indicates heavy rainfall of 7.5 to 15 mm in an hour, expected to continue for the next two hours. Flooding is possible in low-lying areas and near rivers. Residents are advised to monitor the news for further updates.
On Wednesday, PAGASA issued another red rainfall warning over Metro Manila and nearby provinces due to expected heavy rains.
Red Rainfall Warning (as of 5 p.m.)
- Metro Manila
- Rizal
- Bataan
- Zambales
- Bulacan
- Pampanga
Orange Warning Level
- Tarlac province
Yellow Warning Level
- Cavite
- Batangas
- Laguna
- Nueva Ecija
- Quezon (General Nakar, Real, Infanta, Mauban, Sampaloc)
PAGASA also stated that light to moderate with occasional heavy rains are expected over parts of Quezon within the next three hours.
Tropical cyclone Carina has intensified and is now classified as a Super Typhoon.
The National Capital Region has been placed under a state of calamity due to massive flooding.