Classes suspended in parts of Caraga due to Shear Line

DAVAO CITY – Several local government units in the Caraga Region suspended classes on Friday as the shear line triggered heavy rains and potential flooding.

The shear line is a weather phenomenon that occurs when cold air from the northeast monsoon (Amihan) interacts with warm air from the easterlies. This interaction creates intense cloud formation, leading to prolonged heavy rainfall and, in some cases, severe flooding and landslides, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) closely monitors shear line activity as it can cause localized but significant weather disturbances.

Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr. ordered suspending classes at all levels in public and private schools across the province. He also directed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), Municipal and barangay officials

Government agencies and responders to implement disaster preparedness measures to mitigate risks.

Several towns followed suit, suspending classes: Bayugan City, San Francisco, Veruela, Talacogon and La Paz

In Surigao del Sur, Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel suspended kindergarten to senior high school classes, with additional suspensions in: Cortes, San Agustin, San Miguel, Hinatuan

Meanwhile, in Surigao del Norte, Placer Mayor Jovymarie Villason suspended elementary school classes due to the worsening weather conditions.

Local governments have advised residents in low-lying and landslide-prone areas to Stay updated with weather advisories, prepare for possible evacuations if heavy rainfall persists, and report any flooding, landslides, or rising water levels to authorities for immediate action.

With the shear line expected to continue affecting parts of Caraga, authorities remain on high alert for potential emergencies.