BY NYARIKA DOMANAIS
ILOILO City – During a recent meeting with Mayor Jerry Treñas, representatives from the National Resilience Council issued a warning regarding the La Niña phenomenon, urging the public to brace for potential flash floods.
As forecasted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, Astronomical Services Administration, La Niña – which brings torrential rains – is expected to take effect during the third quarter of 2024.
The Council emphasized the severity of La Niña, predicting stronger storms and heavier rains, which could result to flooding because the ground and trees may not fully absorb voluminous rainwater.
It advised investing in water storage facilities to mitigate the effects.
Donna Magno, the Iloilo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, acknowledged the urgency of the situation.
“Studies predict that in the near future, dry periods will become more intense and wet days will be shorter, yet significantly wetter,” said Magno.
Mayor Treñas emphasized the need for comprehensive preparation.
The city has already allocated funds for major infrastructure to manage increased water flow, with specific budgets set for sea defenses.
It has an existing cistern – a tank storing water – at La Paz Plaza and there is a P17-million fund available that can be used to construct the same facility at Plaza Libertad.
The city government is also looking for more funds to establish one reservoir in Jaro Plaza and other public plazas./PN
