Nearly 200,000 families in Mindanao affected by shear line

Areas affected include Region XI and Caraga, covering at least 469 villages, or barangays, DSWD said in a 6:00 a.m. progress report.

Of affected families, 2,672 are taking shelter in 74 open evacuation centers, while 22,205 are staying with friends and relatives.

DSWD also reported 27 totally damaged houses and 53 partially damaged houses due to effects of shear line.

Humanitarian assistance of nearly P46 million has been provided to affected families as of report.

Meanwhile, shear line — a zone where cold northeast monsoon winds meet warm easterlies, creating rain clouds — is expected to affect eastern parts of Southern Luzon and Visayas, according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday.

Cloudy skies with scattered rains are expected in Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, and Samar, PAGASA said in a 4:00 a.m. advisory.

It also warned of possible flash floods and landslides during moderate to occasionally heavy rains.

The conditions are likewise expected in Palawan and rest of Visayas, while rest of country will be affected by prevailing easterlies and northeast monsoon. — Edg Adrian A. Eva