Mina enters Phl, to bring more rain

CEBU, Philippines - Following recent flooding, the weather agency warned the public of increased flooding due to tropical depression “Mina” which has entered the country yesterday.

Rafael Tapalas of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration warned the public of more heavy rains and flooding as Mina enters the Philippines.

Though without direct effects, Mina has increased the south west monsoon or hanging habagat which has affected the Visayas and part of Mindanao since May.

As of yesterday Mina was at 350 kilometers east south east of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers near the center. 

If the storm will not change its course, Mina is expected to be at 470 kilometers East North East of Virac early today.

Habagat airflow is sometimes strong, especially when a storm is present in the area which brings rains which can last for many days or even weeks.

Because of the expected large volume of rains with Mina, Tapalas warned families living along riverbanks and landslide prone areas to take preventive measures.

The weather agency has also released a tropical cyclone warning for ships traveling close to Mina.

Authorities earlier identified several flood prone areas in Cebu City including D. Jakosalem St., Magallanes St., P. Lopez St., Bonifacio St., V. Gullas St., Junquera St., Sanciangko St., MJ Cuenco Ave., and Osmeña Blvd. (FREEMAN)