Flooding in Butuan Displaces Nearly 3,000 Families Across 21 Villages

BUTUAN – The City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) in Butuan has reported significant flooding affecting 21 barangays, with the water level in the Agusan River rising due to continuous adverse weather conditions.

According to Philippines News Agency, a critical Water Level Flood Alert No. 3 has been issued, leading to the ongoing forced evacuation of residents living alongside the Agusan River, where water levels have reached a dangerous height of 3.1 meters.

The office has urged residents to reach out for any flood and disaster-related assistance as the situation worsens. The swelling of the Agusan River follows persistent rains, exacerbated by the trough of a low-pressure area affecting not only Butuan but also parts of neighboring Agusan del Sur and Davao de Oro provinces.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office has provided an update on the impact of the flooding, stating that 2,947 families or approximately 9,308 individuals from the affected barangays have been displaced. These families are now taking shelter in 32 evacuation centers strategically placed throughout the city to accommodate the influx of evacuees.

As of the latest reports on Tuesday, relief efforts have reached 2,344 families, with food and other necessities distributed at a total cost of PHP1.2 million. The city’s response highlights the extensive efforts being made to support those affected by the flooding as the community grapples with the challenges posed by the rising water levels and the ongoing inclement weather.