Metro at ‘moderate risk’ due to Betty

MANILA, Philippines — The National Capital Region (NCR) has been placed at “moderate risk” for flooding due to possible heavy rains brought by Typhoon Betty, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said. 

The Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, headed by acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, placed the NCR on Bravo or full alert in the next three days.

Artes said based on the council’s assessment, Metro Manila is at moderate risk for flooding.

“Metro Manila may experience an estimated 50 millimeters of rain in the next three days, based on projections by the state weather bureau, hence the need to upgrade the protocol,” the MMDA said. 

Artes said government agencies are monitoring not only the typhoon’s movement but also the enhanced habagat or southwest monsoon that could cause flooding in low-lying areas in the metropolis.

Artes said MMDA rescue personnel as well as rubber boats, life vests, vehicles and military trucks are on standby to assist local government units.

The agency has coordinated with Metro Manila mayors and discussed their preparations for the typhoon, Artes said.

The MMDA earlier reported that 403 barangays in Metro Manila may be submerged in floods due to Betty.