By Rowena Cruz PCG personnel patrol the coast of Quezon province, advising residents to prepare for the arrival of Severe Tropical Storm Nik...
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| PCG personnel patrol the coast of Quezon province, advising residents to prepare for the arrival of Severe Tropical Storm Nika. (Photo from Cgs Northern Quezon) |
INFANTA, Quezon – Severe Tropical Storm Nika threatens Quezon province on November 11, 2024 with powerful winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening coastal flooding, prompting widespread preparations. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended all sea travel, leaving residents who depend on ferries stranded.
Fishermen in Infanta and General Nakar have secured their boats. Residents of the Polillo Islands are stockpiling essential supplies. The PCG in Real is coordinating with local officials to protect vulnerable communities. "We're advising residents to monitor the storm and take all necessary precautions," a PCG officer stated. "Those in low-lying areas should prepare to evacuate."
Businesses and residents in towns along Lamon Bay and Tayabas Bay are also taking preventative measures. Shopkeepers in Sariaya are boarding up windows, and resort owners in Tiaong are moving valuables to higher ground. The tourism industry is expected to be significantly impacted by the suspension of sea travel, with resorts and hotels anticipating a sharp decline in guests.
PCG personnel are patrolling the coast, warning those on beaches and near rivers about Nika's dangers, including strong currents, riptides, and flash floods. Local authorities are urging residents to stay informed and follow evacuation orders as needed.
As of 7:00 AM the Quezon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) issued an urgent bulletin at 8:00 AM today, highlighting Nika's increasing intensity. Its said the typhoon's eye was located off Dilasag, Aurora, with maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h and gusts of 180 km/h.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) #1 is in effect for several municipalities, including Mauban, Real, General Nakar, Sampaloc, Infanta, Burdeos, Jomalig, Polillo, Patnanungan, and Panukulan in the First District, and Calauag, Quezon, Alabat, and Perez in the Fourth District.
The PDRRMO predicts moderate to heavy rainfall (50-100 mm), which could trigger localized flooding and landslides. Coastal flooding is a major concern, with a moderate to high risk of storm surge, particularly in the Polillo Islands. Dangerous sea conditions are expected, with waves potentially reaching 4.5 meters in the northern and eastern Polillo Islands and up to 3.0 meters along Quezon's eastern coast.
The PCG urges the public to heed local authorities and remain vigilant. Preparation and adherence to safety regulations are critical. Local officials are working with the PCG to disseminate information and prepare evacuation centers. Community leaders are mobilizing volunteers to support preparedness efforts.
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