OFF LIMITS. The famous Doppler Radar Station in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, has been declared structurally unsafe after sustaining considerable damage caused by the Dec. 2 magnitude 7.4 earthquake in the province. The local government has warned residents and visitors not to get near the radar building as aftershocks continue to affect the town. (Photo courtesy of Hinatuan LGU)
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Doppler Radar Station in Hinatuan town, Surigao del Sur, was declared structurally unsafe after it incurred damages caused by the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the area last Dec. 2.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) declared the building unsafe after assessment following the earthquake and aftershocks.
“The Doppler Radar Station is considered one of the landmarks at the heart of Hinatuan town,” the local government unit (LGU) said in a statement Wednesday.
The LGU noted that the station has been the country’s reference point for weather disturbances for years.
Although the facility is still operational, the DPWH has issued a warning that it is off-limits to visitors.
“The visible cracks in the tower are manifesting severe damage and a risk to public safety, including the surrounding buildings, which were also cordoned off by the DPWH,” the statement said.
The Hinatuan Engineering Office said it was closely monitoring the area around the weather station to prevent people from approaching due to ongoing aftershocks in the town. (PNA)
