BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL BAÑAGA
BACOLOD City – Local government units in Negros Occidental should prepare for La Niña, according to Dr. Zeaphard Caelian, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Caelian cited the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s warning that a weak La Niña may develop in October or November this year.
La Niña is characterized by below-normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean near the equator – a result of shifting wind patterns in the atmosphere.
“Although it is expected to be weak to moderate, every La Niña is different and may still bring adverse effects,” Caelian said.
He added that about eight typhoons are expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility before the year ends.
Last week, several families were evacuated in the municipality of Cauayan and Sipalay City after rivers overflowed because of heavy rains.
Local governments should have dedicated evacuation centers separate from isolation centers for coronavirus patients, said Caelian.
Physical distancing and other minimum health protocols should still be strictly observed, he also said./PN
