PAMPANGA, Philippines — Flooding near the San Simon Interchange in Pampanga caused heavy traffic along the North Luzon Expressway, leaving motorists stranded for several hours.

Some motorists reportedly spent up to six hours on the road as vehicles slowly passed through the flooded section of the expressway.

NLEX traffic operations official Robin Ignacio said floodwaters outside the tollway rose and eventually overflowed into portions of NLEX. Flooding began Friday and worsened over the weekend due to continuous rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or habagat.

The northbound traffic queue extended for more than seven kilometers and reached the Candaba area. Southbound congestion, meanwhile, stretched for about five to six kilometers.

NLEX personnel installed sandbags along the affected section and continued pumping out water in an effort to keep the flood level inside the expressway lower than in surrounding areas.

Class 1 vehicles, including cars and other light vehicles, were directed to use the innermost lane. Trucks and buses were allowed to pass through the second lane.

Motorists approaching the flooded section may also exit at San Simon and reenter the expressway through the San Simon Entry to avoid the affected portion.

Ignacio advised the public to postpone nonessential trips. Those who need to travel were urged to prepare for extended delays and bring enough food and drinking water.

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