Tuguegarao City is grappling with severe flooding as the Cagayan River continues to swell, leading to the closure of numerous roads. The water level at Buntun Bridge reached a critical 11.6 meters by 9 a.m. on Tuesday, surpassing the 11-meter warning threshold. This surge in water levels is attributed to persistent rainfall from recent weather disturbances.
The Tuguegarao City Information Office reported the situation via a social media update, highlighting the severity of the flooding. Key roads such as Gomez Extension, Delpol St. in Centro 11, Macapagal Crossing, Panacanauan Avenue, Linao Carig Road, Balao St., Gonzaga St. in Centro 10, Aquino St. in Annafunan East, Cabalza and Lunnay Sts. in Atulayan Sur, Taguinod St. in Annafunan and Linao East, Aguinaldo Extension, Macapagal Avenue, and Fermin St. in Atulayan Norte are currently impassable. The Capatan overflow bridge also remains closed to traffic.
In response to the flooding, Mayor Maila Ting Que announced the suspension of work in government offices starting at 11 a.m. on Tuesday. This measure aims to alleviate traffic congestion caused by the flooded roads and facilitate emergency and disaster relief operations. Office heads have the authority to suspend operations earlier, ensuring all pending client matters are addressed, and may implement alternative work arrangements.
Additionally, classes from Kindergarten to Grade 12, including the Alternative Learning System, were suspended on Monday night. Mayor Que urged residents in non-flooded areas to remain at home and avoid visiting malls or taking photos of the flood, to not hinder emergency efforts in the affected zones.