• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya called for the preemptive evacuation, especially of residents with houses near creeks and in flood-prone or low-lying barangays, amid the nonstop heavy rainfall, July 18.
Gasataya said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration has issued a heavy rainfall warning for Bacolod and Negros Occidental for this weekend due to Tropical Storm “Crising” and the southwest monsoon, or habagat.
“If you’re in a flood‑prone or low-lying barangay, the City DRRMO and barangay officials recommend preparing for pre‑emptive evacuation,” the city said in a statement.
“There’s no need to rush, but begin preparations by checking your evacuation pack and prepare clothes, meds, docs, small cash; review your evacuation routes and find your nearest evacuation center; stay ready, listen, and watch out for updated weather alerts,” it added.
“Taking early action helps keep everyone safe and calm,” Gasataya stressed. “Coordinate with your barangays immediately for evacuation before the situation becomes dangerous.”
The DRRMO hotlines are (034) 432-3871 to 73, and 0930-2434706.
As of the 8 p.m. bulletin of the DOST-PAGASA, “Crising” maintained its strength while passing close to Santa Ana, Cagayan, with maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 105 km/h, and central pressure of 990 hPa.
Several areas in Luzon have been placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals 2 and 1, and gale warning also hoisted over the northern and eastern seaboards of Northern Luzon.
Several sea trips to and from Bacolod and Negros have also been cancelled due to rough seas.
“Sea travel is risky for all types or tonnage of vessels,” the weather bureau said. “All mariners must remain in port or, if underway, seek shelter or safe harbor as soon as possible until winds and waves subside.”
“Crising” is forecast to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by today, July 19. | CGC
