LEGAZPI CITY (PIA) – Officials in Bicol have urged the public to postpone travel plans to avoid being stranded at the region’s ports due to Typhoon Nika.
As of noon on Sunday, November 10, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Bicol reported that 143 individuals, 18 rolling cargoes, and one vessel are stranded at various seaports across the region.
The Tabaco port in Albay currently has the highest number of stranded passengers, with 107 individuals unable to travel due to the PCG’s No Sailing Policy. Additionally, 12 rolling cargoes and one vessel have been prohibited from setting sail, while another vessel has sought refuge at this port.
Other ports in Bicol with stranded passengers include Pasacao, with 27 individuals and 2 rolling cargoes, and Virac, with 9 stranded passengers and 4 rolling cargoes.
In Camarines Sur, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-Pagasa) issued a storm surge warning on Sunday afternoon. Residents living near the coast have been advised to take necessary precautions due to the expected abnormal rise in seawater levels caused by Nika.
An estimated storm surge height of 1 to 2 meters is anticipated in the low-lying coastal areas of Cabusao, Calabanga, Caramoan, Del Gallego, Garchitorena, Lagonoy, Libmanan, Lupi, Presentacion, Ragay, Sagñay, San Jose, Sipocot, Siruma, Tigaon, and Tinambac.
A 48-hour forecast has been issued to alert residents about the minimal to moderate risk of storm surge, particularly in the areas mentioned above. Affected communities are advised to avoid the coast or beach, cancel all sea or water activities, and stay updated with the latest Pagasa bulletins and advisories. (PIA 5)
Tinambac residents were evacuated on November 10 due to the anticipated storm surge
