Gorio triggers mudflows, rockfalls in Batanes
The Batanes Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) reported a mudflow in Imnajbu village, Uyugan town, on Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025, prompting the issuance of safety warnings to motorists and residents as Typhoon “Gorio” (international name: Podul) spawned heavy rains. INQUIRER FILES
TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines — The Batanes Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) reported a mudflow in Imnajbu village, Uyugan town, on Wednesday morning, prompting the issuance of safety warnings to motorists and residents as Typhoon Gorio (international name: Podul) spawned heavy rains.
“Motorists and commuters are strongly advised to avoid this area or exercise extreme caution if passage is unavoidable,” the PDRRMO said in a public advisory, referring to the Uyugan-Mahatao Interior Road at KM K0025+800.
It also urged residents to “stay updated and report any new road hazards to your local authorities.”
The PDRRMO said strong winds and intermittent rainfall have also caused additional road hazards in Mahatao and Ivana towns, with minor rockfalls reported in Ahaw/Blue Lagoon, Shelter Port, and Paderes Viewpoint.
READ: Gorio further intensifies; about to make landfall over Southern Taiwan
It warned that all roads, particularly those near cliffs and sharp curves, are being affected by the weather.
“Due to the significant safety risk posed by the strong winds, particularly in exposed areas, travel via tricycles and cogon trikes is not advisable at this time,” the PDRRMO said, discouraging non-essential travel and advising motorists to drive with extreme caution.
In Itbayat town, work and classes at all levels in both public and private institutions were suspended on Wednesday due to the typhoon, according to municipal planning and development officer Nilda Salengua-Garcia.
Sea travel to and from the province has also been suspended since Tuesday, the Coast Guard Station Batanes said.
“Mariners are advised to remain in port or seek safe harbor immediately. Stay vigilant and prioritize your safety,” the agency added./coa
