PAGASA warns public, LGUs for cyclones

CEBU, Philippines —  Local weather expert in Cebu cautions disaster managers as occurrence of tropical cycles (locally known as "bagyo") may be frequent starting this month.

According to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), an average of 10 to 13 tropical cyclones may develop and enter Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) from this month until November.

Alfredo Quiblat, Jr., chief of PAGASA-Visayas, said in June alone, at least one to two tropical cyclones are forecasted to occur and enter PAR.

"They (disaster managers) should be prepared for and be ready with the different natural hazards caused by bagyo and other weather phenomena," he told The FREEMAN.

Tropical cyclones are rain-inducing weather systems that may bring heavy downpour that might trigger landslides and flooding.

Floodwaters may breach river banks and other water channels while rains penetrate and soften the ground.

Quiblat said the rainy season has not started yet but its onset is expected anytime this week.

He said the public, especially local government units, should keep monitoring the updated weather advisories and warnings issued by PAGASA.

The weather bureau noted that two to three tropical cyclones are expected in July and August.

September has the most projected number with two to four tropical cyclones seen to develop and might affect the country.

In October, two to three tropical cyclones are predicted to occur and enter PAR while one to two tropical cyclones are expected in November. — MBG (FREEMAN)