IN THE next two days expect rains due to tropical typhoon “Maria.” Though it is not expected to make landfall in the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) says it will enhance the southwest monsoon.
We should be prepared for torrential rains, floods and storm surges. Citizens should regularly monitor weather updates and advisories for evacuation. Disaster preparedness and response agencies should be on alert for emergencies. Concerned government departments must be ready to provide basic needs and relief items for residents in temporary shelters and affected areas.
The public should be reminded of measures to undertake based on the Disaster Preparedness and First Aid Handbook, a manual produced by the Committee on Climate Change, in partnership with various government agencies.
What to do in case of typhoons? There are some of them: Stay indoors and keep calm. Monitor TV and radio reports. Secure your home. Trim trees near dwellings. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.
Go to the nearest designated evacuation center if your house is in a flood-prone area. Have a flashlight and radio handy, with fresh batteries. Stock up on food, potable water, kerosene, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
In case of flooding, turn off the main sources of electricity, gas and water in your home. Stack furniture above the expected flood level. Keep appliances, valuables, chemicals, toxic substances, and garbage beyond the reach of floodwaters.
Yes, avoid low-lying areas, riverbanks, creeks and coastal areas, slopes, cliffs, and foothills. Rain can trigger landslides, rockslides or mudslides. Avoid wading through flooded areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Do not operate any electrical equipment during a flood. Do not use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded.
We must caution communities of possible storm surges. Storm surge is a sudden rise in sea level above normal, causing big waves as a tropical cyclone approaches the coast. A storm surge can sweep the coastline, and can extend several kilometers inland.
What to do when expecting a storm surge? Make plans for evacuating members of your family and yourself to higher ground before a storm surge takes place. Stay off the beach when a weather disturbance is approaching or exists in your community.
Listen to the Pagasa Public Forecast/Warnings that are aired regularly. The storm surge warning is incorporated in the Domestic Bulletins.
As soon as possible, evacuate to higher ground and stay away from beaches when a typhoon approaches your community.
Better safe than sorry.
