Manila Flood: Philippine Capital Submerged in Floodwaters, Help Coming Non-stop as Monsoon Rain Persists [PHOTOS and VIDEOS]
Manila flood problem is felt at its worst again.
An estimated sixty (60%) percent of the Philippine capital is still submerged in floodwaters as a result of incessant monsoon downpour lasting over a week. The government and several aid agencies are rushing to help those badly affected by the unstoppable Habagat (wet season monsoon).
Countless residents in low-lying parts of Manila have evacuated and squeezed themselves in temporary shelters like public schools.
The national disaster agency said on Wednesday morning that at least 850,000 people were forced to leave their homes due to the floodwaters.
On early Wednesday evening, an hour's downpour of 54.7 mm (2.15 inches) made matters worse for many Manila households.
The monsoon rain nearly broke the record of 56.58 mm rain in an hour in September 2009 that inundated Manila during a severe typhoon, which killed over 700 people and caused $1 billion worth of property damage.
Other provinces near Manila - mostly agricultural areas - were also badly affected by the floodwaters. So far, the total damages to crops and agricultural produce are estimated at 152 million pesos ($3.6 million).
At least 72 people have been reported killed in the terrible floodwaters.
As of Thursday morning, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the number of evacuees was almost two million.
An estimated P126 million worth of relief assistance was released by the government and its agencies to help the flood victims.
On social networks, users are posting flood photos and help agencies' contact details for everyone to be aware of the severity of the situation. A lot of students are encouraging the young ones to help in their efforts towards relief good collections.
Watch the videos below and see photos of Manila flood in the accompanying slideshow. (Click 'Start')