PH Red Cross gears up for La Niña

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MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is on full alert in preparation for the effects of the “weak” La Niña Phenomenon that could intensify tropical cyclones that will enter the country’s area of responsibility in the remaining months of 2024.

According to the organization, two million PRC volunteers and assets are ready for deployment.

READ: 2-3 cyclones expected to enter PAR in October

“To ensure food and water supplies during floods, we will intensify our hot meal and water distribution efforts, along with other humanitarian services in affected areas. We are also strengthening our health promotion seminars to safeguard vulnerable communities from flood-related diseases,” PRC Chairman Richard Gordon said in a statement on Thursday.

On the other hand, PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwendolyn Pang advised the public to prepare for upcoming disasters.

“Don’t wait for a disaster to strike; prepare your Go Bag now with essentials to sustain you and your family for three days. It will be much more challenging to gather items in a rush, so proactive preparation is key,” she said.

Among the items the public should prepare are “drinking water, non-perishable food, eating utensils, a flashlight, a portable radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit with essential medicines, personal documents (such as IDs and bank records), personal hygiene items (including soap, toothbrush, and sanitary products), a whistle, candles with matches, clothes, shoes, blankets, mats, and trash bags,” she added.

Earlier, the state weather bureau reported that two to three tropical cyclones are expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this October.

It also said four to seven tropical cyclones may enter the PAR from October until the end of the year.

Nine tropical cyclones passed through the PAR so far this year — the last recorded was Tropical Depression Igme, which already exited the PAR last September 21.