Marikina River’s water level reached third alarm early Thursday morning, as Typhoon “Ulysses” continuous to bring heavy rains and strong winds over Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
According to Marikina Public Information Office, the river’s water level reached 18 meters at 3:18 a.m., automatically triggering the third alarm, the highest alarm level over the waterway.
With this, forced evacuation of residents along the river and on low-lying areas would be in effect.
The local government has earlier started the preemptive evacuation of residents living near the river.
Modular tents were also prepared for evacuees at evacuations sites in the city. All of the river’s eight flood gates have also been opened.
The river’s water level quickly rose late Wednesday night due to heavy downpour caused by the typhoon, reaching 15 meters at 10:35 p.m. on Wednesday and 16 meters two hours later.
Metro Manila remains under tropical cyclone signal No. 3 due to the typhoon.