OCD prepares as potential typhoon threatens N. Luzon

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MANILA, Philippines – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Cagayan Valley has directed the implementation of preparatory measures as a low-pressure area (LPA) east of southeastern Luzon is seen to develop into a typhoon and drench parts of the country in the coming days.

On the directives of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, Cagayan Valley Regional Director Leon Rafael Jr. issued a memorandum directing both Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs) to implement and enhance preparedness and response protocols throughout the region.

The OCD issued the directive in anticipation of the effects of the LPA, which the weather bureau said may intensify to become the 11th tropical cyclone for this year, to be locally named Kristine.

“RDRRMCs and LDRRMCs have been directed to commence preparatory activities to ensure readiness for the possible impacts of Tropical Depression Kristine,” the OCD said in a statement Sunday.

The RDRRMCs and LDRRMCs will closely monitor weather advisories and local conditions, conduct Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment Meetings, and implement the preparedness measures detailed in Operation Listo (Alert).

Likewise, they are urged to improve risk communication by tailoring messages for better community understanding.

“Pre-emptive evacuations should be considered if necessary, and essential resources, including response assets, relief goods, medical supplies, and other logistical support, should be prepositioned as warranted,” the OCD said.

As of 8 a.m. Sunday, the LPA was located approximately 1,460 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

The LPA is projected to develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours and is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Sunday evening or early Monday morning.

There is a possibility that it may make landfall over extreme northern Luzon.

Also, it could reach typhoon intensity even before landfall.

The OCD said it is actively disseminating weather advisories and monitoring the status of the Magat Dam, as well as major river systems and tributaries, including water sources from the Sierra Madre and Cordillera Mountains. With reports from Priam Nepomuceno/PNA