Zambo activates operation center due to ‘Mangkhut’

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Barangay Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) have been alerted to respond to any eventualities as typhoon Mangkhut (local name Ompong) is projected to enhance monsoon rains.

Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) chief, said BDRRMCs - particularly those located in areas prone to floods, storm surges and landslides - have been directed to prepare for a pre-emptive evacuation protocol.

Apolinario also urged residents to constantly monitor the situation and to heed the advises of BDRRMCs, adding the city government has activated the emergency operation center located at the CDRRMO along Pettit Barracks area.

CDRRMO officials have also met with the Philippine Coast Guard, Task Force Zamboanga and other concerned agencies and discussed contingencies once the storm enters PAR.
“We should determine our readiness,” he added.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said moderate to heavy rains are expected across Luzon and some parts of the country starting Wednesday until the weekend.

The weather bureau reported that the eye of the typhoon was estimated, based on all available data, at 1,190 kilometers east northeast of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

It has a maximum sustained winds of 205 kilometers per hour (km/h) near the center with gustiness of up to 255 km/h and is moving West at 20 km/h.

The southwest monsoon continues to affect the western section of the country, particularly Palawan, western Visayas and the Zamboanga Peninsula, including this city.  (PNA)