Three in a row

We have not experienced this kind of weather for quite a while. During October and November, the country is no stranger to strong typhoons. Quinta was the first to barrel into Albay. Wind speeds exceeded 120 kilometers per hour. It made its way to Mindoro before exiting the country. It did leave a trail of damage in its wake. Less than a week later, we have typhoon Rolly. This is the most powerful typhoon to hit the country since Yolanda with winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour. The Bicol region was again the first landmass to receive the typhoon. Metro Manila is also in the path of this howler, prompting the government to issue warnings and precautions. As of this writing, the winds of Rolly are slowly making its presence felt.

PAGASA issued a warning that the Ipo Dam may release water due to the possibility of overflow brought about by the rains. The same goes for the La Mesa Dam. The Angat Dam is not in danger of overflowing. The dam is the main source of Metro Manila's water so it is constantly being utilized. Not too long ago the government was concerned about the low level of Angat Dam. The situation has changed. The country goes through two types of weather, a dry and wet season. This year, with the effects of La Niña, we are experiencing a truly wet season. Another weather disturbance is closely following the heels of Rolly, typhoon Siony. That's three in a row.

I'm sure many are wondering what this strong typhoon will do to the dolomite beach of Manila. This is probably the litmus test for this project. With the possibility of a storm surge, the dolomite is in danger of being washed away. Despite all the criticism this project has received, I hope it withstands this typhoon, only because I do not want to see millions of pesos wasted. Then there is the possibility of tons of garbage washing up on Manila Bay. This has always been the case when severe weather hits the metro.

Already there is a reported death in the wake of typhoon Rolly. I can only hope and pray no one else is harmed or perishes and the damage minimal as the typhoon crosses the country. We are still dealing with a pandemic so we need to be spared from additional burdens. Siony, the storm that follows Rolly is already showing to be another powerful typhoon. Can we get a break now, please?