Aurora province goes on red alert to prepare for ‘Nika’

BALER, Aurora — As part of its preparedness measures against Severe Tropical Storm Nika (Toraji), which is expected to batter a large part of the province on Monday, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) here raised the red alert status on Sunday.

Governor Reynante Tolentino, also the PDRRMC chair, said they conducted a pre-disaster assessment meeting at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

“We are on red alert, which means all agency personnel must be on duty to respond to calamities and the emergency operation assistance was activated,” he said.

Suspension of work in all government offices and classes at all levels in all public and private schools is also in effect Monday.

The governor directed the PDRRMC to ensure the safety of those living near danger zones, particularly in the northern towns (Dinalungan, Casiguran, and Dilasag).

PDRRMO chief Elson Amado Egargue asked for the help of the police, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard when the need arose.

The danger zones are low-lying, landslide-prone, and near bodies of water.

Fishers are advised not to venture out.

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office said repacking of food packs is ongoing at Aurora Trading Center.

“I am calling on the public to take precautionary measures and be prepared for the typhoon, follow protocols, and be updated for the weather advisories,” Tolentino said.