Tropical Storm Auring Causes Severe Flooding, Evacuations in Surigao del Sur

Tropical Storm Auring caused significant flooding and landslides in Surigao del Sur, affecting over 30,000 families as of February 21st, 2021.

The storm prompted preemptive evacuations but some residents were caught off guard by the rapid rise of floodwaters in areas previously considered safe from hazards due to continuous rainfall since December and January.

In Tandag City alone, over 9,500 families have been rescued and evacuated as of Sunday noon. The water level at Gibong Dam in Prosperidad town was near critical levels, prompting evacuations.

The National Irrigation Administration dam in San Miguel is nearing its critical level due to continuous rain, while the Andanan River in Bayugan City is also approaching a dangerous stage.

Power outages were reported in Surigao del Sur as a result of Auring's impact. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office and respective local disaster management offices are closely monitoring river systems and implementing pre-emptive measures to ensure resident safety.