BALER: As part of its preparedness measures against Severe Tropical Storm Nika (Toraji), which is expected to batter a large part of the province on Monday, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) here raised the red alert status on Sunday. Governor Reynante Tolentino, also the PDRRMC chair, said they conducted a pre-disaster assessment meeting at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

According to Philippines News Agency, the red alert status mandates all agency personnel to be on duty to respond to calamities, and the emergency operation assistance has been activated. Governor Tolentino announced the suspension of work in all government offices and classes in both public and private schools across the province on Monday to ensure public safety. He also directed the PDRRMC to prioritize the safety of residents living in high-risk areas, particularly in the northern towns of Dinalungan, Casiguran, and Dilasag.

PDRRMO Chief Elson Amado Egargue ha
s called for assistance from the police, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard if necessary. The identified danger zones are low-lying, landslide-prone, and near bodies of water, prompting advice for fishers to refrain from venturing out to sea. Meanwhile, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office has begun repacking food supplies at the Aurora Trading Center to prepare for potential emergencies.

Governor Tolentino urged the public to take precautionary measures, strictly follow protocols, and stay informed with weather advisories. As per the 5 p.m. bulletin, the center of Nika was estimated to be 380 kilometers east of Infanta, Quezon, with potential landfall over Isabela or northern Aurora expected by Monday morning or early afternoon.

Nika is forecasted to intensify into a typhoon by Sunday, reaching peak wind speeds of around 130 kilometers per hour before making landfall. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been raised in several areas, including the northern portion of Aurora and p
arts of nearby regions, indicating heightened vigilance and preparedness. Signal No. 1 covers additional regions, including the rest of Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, and Metro Manila, among others, emphasizing the widespread impact of the approaching storm.