Floodwaters reached chest-deep levels in Barangay 15, Ilawod East, Legazpi City during heavy rains on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

"Mga padibdib din po yung tubig baha, kasi pinasok po yung loob ng mga bahay sa area po namin since medyo mababa po kasi yung lugar namin," Jean Aringo, a resident, said.

The flooding inundated homes in Purok 7 Camiri, which caused disruptions to residents.

As rains eased later in the day, water levels started to recede.

“Medyo bumaba na po yung tubig baha, medyo humina na din kasi yung ulan,” Aringo added.

Residents are questioning the purpose of the elevated riprap wall in the area, which seems to have done little to alleviate recurring floods.

LA NIÑA AND HEAVY RAINFALL

The floods come amid La Niña-induced downpours expected to continue until March 2025, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

“Periods of cooler than average sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that started in September 2024 continue to persist and further strengthened reaching La Niña conditions threshold in December 2024, as shown by the recent oceanic and atmospheric indicators,” the weather agency said in a January 6 press release.

This weather pattern increases the chances of above-normal rainfall, which could lead to more flooding, flash floods, and rain-induced landslides in vulnerable areas.

PAGASA has also warned of increased tropical cyclone activity within the Philippine Area of Responsibility during this period.