The onset of the monsoon rains brings with it a sudden deluge of reports of flooded streets each time the heavens open-up. Despite infrastructure projects that have been earmarked to address flooding in Metro Manila, flash floods are still quite common in the capital to the point that people have actually adjusted their driving habits in anticipation of the traffic buildup these floods will cause.
The strong monsoon rains which have been an almost daily occurrence these past few weeks, have once again exposed the usual suspects when it comes to flooding.
According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and recent flood reports this past week, here are some of the major streets and thoroughfares in Metro Manila that have the reputation of being inundated whenever heavy rains decide to ruin our day.
- España Boulevard – Antipolo to Maceda, Manila
- Taft Avenue – DLSU, Manila
- Padre Burgos, Manila City Hall
- R. Papa – Rizal Avenue, Manila
- General Kalentong, Manila
- Abad Santos, Manila
- Buendia, South Superhighway, Makati
- Don Bosco, Makati
- Osmeña – Skyway Makati
- Chino Roces – Dela Rosa, Makati
- EDSA – Chino Roces Magallanes Tunnel, Makati
- West Service Road, Merville, Parañaque
- Ninoy Aquino Avenue – Macapagal and Sucat corner C-5 extension, Paranaque
- East Service Road, Sales Street, Taguig
- C-5 – BCDA, Taguig City
- C-5 Bayani Road, Taguig
- C-5 McKinley Road, Taguig
- C-5 Bagong Ilog, Pasig
- North EDSA – Trinoma, Quezon City
- EDSA – Santolan, Camp Aguinaldo Gate 3, Quezon City
- NLEX Balintawak – Cloverleaf, Quezon City
- Quezon Avenue, Victory Avenue / Biak na Bato, Quezon City
- PHILCOA, Quezon City
- V. Luna Road, Quezon City
- Araneta Avenue – Talayan, Quezon City
- Tomas Morato – Scout Lozano, Quezon City
- Timog – Scout Tobias, Quezon City
- Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City Hall
- Boni Avenue – F. Ortigas, Mandaluyong
- Barangka, Marikina
Now flash flooding in certain areas depends on the amount of rainfall and the length of time of the downpour. Hightide periods are likewise more likely to cause floods in low-lying areas. And if there are ongoing roadworks in the vicinity, you can be sure drainage there will not be operating at its best. Fortunately, most of these flash floods subside in about an hour’s time.
Just remember though that the best way to deal with a flooded street is not to take a chance wading through it, especially when you no longer see the road markings, or worse the pedestrian gutters.
There are just too many components in your car that might get damaged by water, so it is better to stay clear of floods. Finding another route would be ideal.
But if you are not in the mood to wait out these floods in your car, just push back your departure time and let the rain run its course first.
You have been informed.
