Filipinos in southeastern US told: Prepare for Hurricane Michael

MANILA, Philippines — Members of the Filipino community in five southeastern states in the United States have been alerted to prepare for the onslaught of Hurricane Michael, which is expected to make landfall midweek.

An estimated 232,000 Filipinos reside in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

The Philippine Embassy in Washington has advised the Filipino community in the concerned areas to monitor the movement of the storm and take note of the local officials' warnings.

Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said Filipinos should prepare for storm surges, heavy rainfall and hurricane-force winds.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) predicted "Michael" to develop into a Category 3 hurricane, with winds from 111 to 129 miles per hour, when it makes landfall on Florida on Wednesday.

It would have the power to uproot trees, block roads and knock out power for days.

Romualdez said the Philippine Embassy will monitor developments and coordinate with members of the Filipino community in the affected areas.

"Filipinos who may be impacted by the hurricane and may need assistance are advised to contact the Embassy at (202) 368-2767," the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The NHC said life-threatening storm surge is possible along the coasts of the Florida Panhandle, Big Bend and Nature Coast, where storm surge warnings have been raised.

A hurricane warning has also been issed in the Florida Gulf Coast, where residents have been warned for life-threatening winds associated with the core of the hurricane. — Patricia Lourdes Viray

Here are the updated 4 PM CDT Key Messages for Hurricane #Michael. Storm Surge and Hurricane Warnings have been issued for portions of the Florida Gulf Coast https://t.co/tW4KeGdBFb pic.twitter.com/dEb1VKhjUm

— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) October 8, 2018