Pampanga prov'l gov't orders pre-emptive evacuation amid red rainfall warning
Pampanga police quickly responded to a call for help and rescued families affected by rapidly rising floodwaters in Barangay Sto. Cristo, Lubao, Pampanga on Friday. (Photo courtesy of PNP / via Liezle Inigo)
PAMPANGA — Authorities have ordered the immediate implementation of pre-emptive and forced evacuation in high-risk and vulnerable areas across the province amid persistent heavy to intense rains brought by the southwest monsoon or Habagat.
Pampanga Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, chairperson of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), ordered local officials to ensure the early evacuation of residents in areas at risk of flooding and landslides.
The directive came after the DOST-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a red rainfall warning, and possibility of serious flooding in low-lying areas and communities near rivers and waterways.
Rainfall of between 50 and 100 millimeters may be recorded until noon of Aug. 31, 2026, according to the advisory.
Such conditions may trigger or worsen flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Residents were urged to immediately comply with evacuation orders from their respective local government units and barangays .
Authorities encourage residents to prepare essential belongings and emergency kits and continue monitoring official weather.
“Do not wait for the situation to worsen before evacuating,” authorities said, emphasizing that the safety of Pampanga residents remains the top priority.