Pre-emptive Evacuations Begin in Albay
Local leaders in Albay have launched pre-emptive evacuations in several vulnerable areas of Guinobatan due to heavy rains expected from a low-pressure area (LPA) and the southwest monsoon, locally known as the habagat. This proactive measure aims to protect residents from the imminent risks posed by flooding and lahar flows.
Governor Noel Rosal issued an advisory on Thursday evening, ordering evacuations specifically in Puroks 4, 5, 6, and 8 of Barangay Masarawag. Situated near the base of Mayon Volcano, Masarawag is particularly susceptible to hazards like flash floods, landslides, and lahar.
Safety Measures and Class Suspensions
“All residents are advised to take precautionary measures against hazards, such as flash floods, landslides, and possible lahar flows,” the governor emphasized. In line with this, face-to-face classes at all levels in both public and private schools have been suspended. Students will shift to alternative learning methods until conditions improve.
Authorities also prohibited all river crossings, whether on foot or by vehicle, until floodwaters recede. The directive aims to minimize casualties and ensure public safety during this period of heightened risk.
Coordinated Disaster Response
“All municipal and barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) are directed to stay on heightened alert, coordinate closely, and mobilize resources as needed,” the official order stated. This ensures a swift and organized response to any emergencies that may arise.
Guinobatan Mayor Gemma Ongoco reported that at least 643 families, totaling 1,931 individuals, have already been evacuated. “We are now starting the evacuation. They will be evacuated to a community college campus,” she said, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Weather Outlook and Precautions
The Philippine weather bureau confirmed that a large portion of the country will continue to experience rains caused by the LPA and the habagat. As of early morning, the LPA was positioned 150 kilometers east of Baler, Aurora, with a high probability of developing into a tropical cyclone within 24 hours.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast across Metro Manila, the Ilocos and Cordillera regions, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur due to the LPA. Meanwhile, the habagat will bring similar weather conditions over the rest of Luzon, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Zamboanga Peninsula, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, Soccsksargen, Lanao del Norte, and Misamis Occidental.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders to safeguard lives and property amid these adverse weather conditions.
For more news and updates on pre-emptive evacuations, visit Filipinokami.com.
