Davao City suspends work after flooding displaces 358 families
FLOODING in Davao City. (Keith Bacongco)
DAVAO CITY – The city government suspended work and classes on Tuesday to safeguard residents and allow clearing operations after widespread flooding caused by heavy rains from the easterlies and intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) Monday night.
City Information Officer Harvey Lanticse said in a statement Tuesday that the downpour triggered the overflow of the Matina and Bunawan rivers, forcing the evacuation of 358 families.
"As of this morning, affected individuals who temporarily took shelter at evacuation sites have begun returning to their homes," he noted.
Lanticse said clearing operations are underway in affected barangays with teams from the Ancillary Services Unit, City Environment and Natural Resources Office, City Engineer's Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Bureau of Fire Protection.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Mayor's Office have extended initial aid and food packs, including assistance to the family of the reported casualty.
Meanwhile, the City Health Office (CHO) urged Dabawenyos to take precautions against leptospirosis, a bacterial disease transmitted through contaminated floodwaters.
CHO advised residents to wash thoroughly after wading in floods, wear boots, and avoid exposure if they have wounds. Symptoms typically appear within two to 30 days and may include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.