Zoraida makes landfall in Davao

MANILA, Philippines - Tropical Depression Zoraida weakened yesterday into a low-pressure area after crossing Mindanao, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

Zoraida made landfall over Davao Oriental around 9 a.m., bringing moderate to heavy rains over most parts of Mindanao, the state weather bureau said.

PAGASA lifted all storm warning signals as of yesterday afternoon.

As of 2 p.m. yesterday, the low-pressure area was spotted in the vicinity of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur or 40 kilometers west-northwest of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

PAGASA weather forecasting section chief Rene Paciente, however, warned of possible flashfloods and landslides, especially in Bohol and Cebu, the areas hit by earthquake last Oct. 15, as the soil is already saturated.

Thousands of residents fled their homes for safer ground as Zoraida made landfall in Davao Oriental.

Gov. Corazon Malanyaon said classes have been suspended since Monday due to continuous heavy rains.  – With Edith Regalado, Gerry Lee-Gorit, Rudy Santos