At least three people died in Camarines Sur as rains from the shearline affected more than 18,000 people in Bicol Region, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

The shear line brought heavy to intense rainfall of 100 to 200 millimeters across Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes, while moderate to heavy rainfall of 50 to 100 mm affected Masbate.

Shearline refers to the convergence of cold and warm winds which trigger rains.

One of the fatalities was a 39-year-old man who drowned after being swept away by raging waters while crossing a bridge in Ragay town. Meanwhile, two elderly individuals also drowned while they were passing through an overflowed spillway in Cabusao town.

Reports on the fatalities from the ground were undergoing validation at the national level, according to the Council.

The NDRRMC said 18,954 individuals or 4,186 families have been affected due to the effects of shearline in Bicol Region.

Around 2,400 persons were staying in 37 evacuation centers or other people’s houses after being displaced.

There were 11 towns and cities that were flooded in Bicol Region, including Cabusao, Lupi, Ragay, Libmanan, Lagonoy, Siruma, Baao, and Buhi in Camarines Sur; Legazpi City in Albay; Sorsogon City in Sorsogon; and Mobo in Masbate.

Eleven houses were either partially or totally damaged in Casiguran, Sorsogon while local authorities prompted the implementation of class suspensions in 72 areas.

“Residents are advised to remain vigilant. Local disaster response teams have been actively managing the situation, with emergency operations centers activated throughout affected areas,” the NDRRMC said.

“Weather monitoring stations are maintaining 24/7 surveillance, while evacuation centers have been prepared to ensure public safety,” it added.