Article by:
Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – The provincial government of Albay and several local government units in Catanduanes have suspended face-to-face classes on Monday due to heavy rains brought by a shear line and a gale warning.
In Albay, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council chair and Governor Noel Rosal said the suspension is due to the anticipated effects of the shear line, forecast to bring heavy rainfall of 50–100 mm to the province and may significantly increase the risk of flooding, lahar flow, river swelling, and landslides.
Meanwhile, local chief executives of the municipalities of Viga, Virac, San Miguel, Panganiban, Caramoran, Baras, Bato, Pandan, and Gigmoto also ordered the suspension of face-to-face classes.
Rosal issued a preparedness advisory Sunday night for disaster avoidance and public safety.
Schools were advised to shift to alternative learning modalities at all levels in both public and private schools.
Rosal also ordered a no-sailing policy for small to medium seacraft (fishing boats and transport vessels), particularly along the eastern seaboard of Albay.
All river crossings (on foot or by vehicle), river fishing, and swimming are prohibited until floodwaters subside.
All city, municipal, and barangay DRRMCs to be in preparedness and monitoring status in their respective areas, particularly those exposed to floods, lahar, flash floods, and landslides, and to take appropriate and timely countermeasures, including localized evacuation as needed.
“All are directed to stay on heightened alert, coordinate closely, and mobilize resources as needed,” the advisory read.
He also reminded the public to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on flood-prone roads or near riverbanks, and remain alert and on standby for official updates and further advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and local authorities.
PAGASA's 4 a.m. weather forecast said that the shear line will bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms in the Bicol Region, particularly in Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate. (PNA)
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