A satellite image of Tropical Depression Auring, 2021’s first weather disturbance to hit the country. | Photo courtesy of Pagasa
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor David Tumulak, the chairperson for the committee on disaster risk reduction and management, is urging the mountain and riverside barangays to prepare for Tropical Depression Auring.
The state weather bureau has forecasted TD Auring’s eye to pass through Northern Cebu this weekend affecting Cebu City along the way.
Tumulak said he is concerned that the flash floods and landslides, which were rampant during the rainy season last year will be repeated with the incoming storm.
The barangays and their residents should be ready as early as now to avoid any untoward events, Tumulak said.
Primarily, the barangays are urged to already map out the risk areas especially the landslide-prone and flood-prone areas of their area.
“Conduct preemptive evacuation if necessary. Mangandam ta mientras layo pa,” said Tumulak.
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) will be pre-positioning heavy equipment at mountain barangays in case of a landslide.
CDRRMO head Ramil Ayuman said they will be monitoring Busay, Kalunasan, Agsungot, and other barangays with previously recorded landslides.
The public is also urged to prepare for the upcoming storm by stocking up supplies such as candles, food, and water.
The CDRRMO added that they will be on standby starting tomorrow for any incidents with emergency response vehicles. /rcg