Public warned: Brace for storm surges

MANILA, Philippines - Storm surges two to three meters high can possibly occur in coastal communities where storm signal nos. 2 and 3 were raised, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) warned yesterday.

DOST said residents in these areas should move to higher ground and take extra precautions, after Typhoon Glenda gained strength as it hit the Bicol region yesterday.

Science Secretary Mario Montejo urged the public to stay informed and be prepared in the face of the approaching typhoon by monitoring weather bulletins issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) and information from the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (Project NOAH) and the Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (Project DREAM).

“Information is a vital tool that we can use to plan wisely for natural hazards such as typhoons to reduce our losses. We call on the public to heed the warnings issued by our monitoring and warning agencies as we are using the best tools available,” Montejo said.

He urged Filipinos to remain alert and follow the precautions and guidelines to stay safe.

“Our best tool to prevent a disaster and ensure everyone’s safety is to use information available to us and the lessons from our past experiences,” he said.

Mahar Lagmay, executive director of Project NOAH, advised residents in communities under storm surge alert warnings to move to higher ground, particularly if the area is low-lying or flat.

The storm surge simulation and list of affected municipalities were posted on Project NOAH’s website and blog Monday night.

Montejo urged local disaster responders and the public to refer their queries to weather warning agencies.

The public may contact PAGASA at 927-1541; 926-1993 and 926-6970 or follow it on Facebook.com/pagasa.dost.gov.ph or Twitter account @dost_pagasa for live updates.