Storm warning signal #1 in 10 provinces; #2 in Isabela
Tropical Depression Carina has intensified into a Tropical Storm as it continues to move in the general direction of Northern Luzon.
In the severe weather bulletin issued by the PAG-ASA 5PM Saturday, the Tropical Storm Carina was at 290 km Northeast of Virac, Catanduanes with maximum sustained winds of up to 65 kps near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph.
It is forecast to move North Northwest at a speed of 18 kph and is expected to hit Cagayan Valley province Sunday night or Monday morning but is foreseen to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility in the afternoon.
The national weather agency issued a Storm Warning Signal Number Two in Isabela Province. While Cagayan, including Babuyan Group of Islands, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, Aurora, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, and Northern Samar are put under Signal Number Two.
In Samar, about 60 individuals evacuated their homes because of floodings due to heavy rains in seven towns namely aoang, Catubig, Las Navas, Pambujan, San Roque, Mondragon and Lope de Vega. Luckily, no casualties have been recorded as of press time.
Six flights were reportedly canceled due to bad weather conditions. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Information Office issued an advisory on the cancellation of Manila-Calbayog, Manila-Catarman, Manila-Masbate and their return flights.
Airline officials expect that there will be more flight cancellations in the following hours if the storm intensifies.
NAIA officials advise the passengers to communicate immediately to the airline companies to rebook or ask for a refund of their tickets.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) convened today to prepare for the occurrences that the storm might bring.
It aims to identify the areas where the weather disturbance might hit and will be the priority for rescue and relief operations.
The council closely coordinates with the local government units under storm warning signals.
