Authorities in the Philippines are urging residents in low-lying areas and coastal towns to evacuate as super typhoon Man-Yi approaches Luzon island. The storm has intensified with strong winds and heavy rainfall, posing a significant threat to the region. The Office of Civil Defense is warning residents to take evacuation orders seriously to avoid potential dangers such as floods, landslides, and storm surges.
The state weather agency, Pagasa, has raised its storm alert to the highest level for certain provinces in the central Bicol region. With maximum sustained winds reaching 195 kph and gusts up to 240 kph, Man-Yi is considered a potentially catastrophic and life-threatening situation for the area. More than 500,000 people have already been evacuated from the region, with authorities expecting this number to increase as the storm approaches.
In addition to the central Bicol region, the main capital region of Metro Manila is also expected to experience heavy rains and strong winds as the typhoon makes its way towards Luzon. The storm, known locally as Pepito, has already caused flight cancellations in the eastern Visayas region.
The Philippines is no stranger to tropical storms, with an average of about 20 storms hitting the country each year. In October, Tropical Storm Trami and Typhoon Kong-rey resulted in devastating floods and landslides, causing numerous casualties. This month has seen an unprecedented number of active storms in the western Pacific Ocean, signaling the need for preparedness and swift response from authorities.
Authorities are ready with search, rescue, and relief operations, with thousands of personnel and vehicles on standby to assist affected areas. The goal is to minimize casualties and ensure the safety of residents in the path of the typhoon. It is crucial for residents to heed evacuation orders and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from the impending storm.
