Hundreds Evacuated as Flash Floods Hit Southern Philippines

Flooding in the Philippines: Hundreds Evacuated as Heavy Rains Submerge Homes and Schools Heavy rains over the weekend caused widespread flooding in Maguindanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat provinces in the southern Philippines, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes. Videos circulating on social media show houses and a school partially submerged in water, with floodwaters reaching chest-height in some areas. In Sharif Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur, more than 200 families were affected by the flash flood. "The water rose so quickly," said one resident, "we barely had time to grab our belongings before escaping." In Sitio Lining, the floodwaters were even higher, prompting the evacuation of 30 families. Similar scenes unfolded in Ampatuan, where numerous homes were inundated, and in Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat, where the rapid rise of floodwaters led to widespread evacuations. The intense rainfall, attributed to local thunderstorms, overwhelmed drainage systems, causing the rapid flooding. A local school was also affected, with classrooms submerged. The extent of the damage to homes and farmlands is still being assessed. Local authorities are working to provide assistance to those affected, offering temporary shelter and relief supplies. The swift response and community support offer a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.