#GlendaPH: 21 towns warned of storm surge

(Above is Project NOAH’s Storm Surge Forecast Model as of July 15)

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Typhoon Glenda (international codename Rammasun) is likely to cause storm surge in 21 municipalities in the Bicol region, Quezon and Samar, according to the government’s Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (NOAH).

A storm surge is an abnormal rise of water due to a storm over and above the normal tide level. It may cause flash floods, especially in coastal communities. (READ: Storm Surge 101: Are you at risk? Are you prepared for it?)

Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan) caused storm surges as high as 6 meters (19 feet) when it hit last 8 November 2013, said Project NOAH.

The highest predicted storm surge will be observed in Ragay, Camarines Sur. It is likely to reach 3.50 meters (11.5 feet). The storm surge is expected to occur when the typhoon’s center nears the municipalities, according to Project NOAH.

Below are the 10 municipalities likely to experience the highest storm surge. The complete list of 21 municipalities can be viewed here.

How to prepare

Those living in areas where storm surge is likely to happen should move to higher ground, said Project NOAH executive director Mahar Lagmay.

“Those living in areas with storm surge alert warnings should seek and move to higher ground, especially if the area is low-lying or flat that will make it prone to inland inundation,” he said.

Residents should be ready to evacuate to higher ground or to evacuation centers. They should bring with them packing clothes, food, water, first aid kit, flashlight and a battery-powered radio.

They are also advised to move not less than 500 meters from the flat coast or beach. Before leaving their homes, they should close all windows, place valuable possessions in elevated areas and close the main electricity switch. – Rappler.com

Stay alert and ready with the latest weather and disaster information through Project Agos.