Strong winds damage 2 schools, several houses in Negros Occidental

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines—Strong winds hit areas in Silay City and E.B. Magalona town in Negros Occidental on Monday night, damaging structures including two school buildings and several houses,  local officials said on Tuesday.

A tornado reportedly affected the Adela Elementary School and at least seven houses in Silay City at about 7:30 p.m. Monday, said Mayor Jose Montelibano.

Montelibano said eight of the school’s classrooms, the school’s stage and canteen were damaged.

Teacher Teresita Tingson said classes were suspended Monday and no one was at the school premises when the incident occurred.

The next morning, close to 300 pupils came to school for their classes but were sent home because of clearing operations.

In E.B Magalona town, a reported twister struck Barangay Nanca at 7:45 p.m. Monday, damaging a school building and several houses, according to Mayor David Lacson.

Several trees were also uprooted, including a 20-year-old narra tree inside the Nanca Elementary School compound, he added. Classes at the school were also suspended.

Tropical Storm “Gener,” which intensified into a typhoon Monday, roared over Luzon during the weekend and brought heavy rain and strong wind in several parts of the country.