Public urged to get ready for Onyok: Rainy weekend

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of flooding due to moderate to heavy rains Cebu might experience starting today until tomorrow owing to tropical depression “Onyok.”

PAGASA Visayas Director Oscar Tabada said “Onyok” is not expected to make landfall in the Visayas but will still bring rains in large parts of Cebu province.

 He said areas that within the 600-kilometer diameter of “Onyok” may experience continuous rains of 7.5 to 10 millimeter per hour.

 “Maapil ang Cebu sa rain cloud ni ‘Onyok’,” he told The Freeman.

 Tabada said “Onyok” continues to have maximum winds of 55 kilometers per hour (km/h) near the center.

It is also expected to move West at 15 kph.

 Tabada said if “Onyok” sustains its speed, one of the most significant threats would be heavy and long-lasting rainfall. The system’s slow movement would increase the threat of flooding and landslides.

 “Slow moving and not have strong winds, but they can produce the heaviest rains,” he said.

 At 4 p.m. yesterday, “Onyok” was spotted at  515 km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Onyok is expected to make landfall over Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur (Caraga region) this afternoon, December 18, and will affect the eastern section of Mindanao.

It is eyed to move southwest of Dipolog City tomorrow, December 19.

 The weather bureau’s latest forecast track showed the tropical depression leaving the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Sunday, December 20.

 Public storm warning signal (PSWS) No. 1 was hoisted over Surigao del Sur, including Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Province, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Misamis Occidental.

 Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over these areas and the coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be moderate to rough.

Tabada said Onyok has a slim chance of becoming a tropical storm as it is expected to dissipate as it moves over land.

 He stressed, however, this does not mean people should be complacent and still exert maximum preparations

 “We should be ready all the time and by all means,” Tabada said.

 He advised all residents to keep emergency and first aid kits, as well as food supplies ready; review evacuation plans; plan how to communicate with family members in case of emergency; and to keep vehicles in good working condition. He also advised those living along the coast to immediately start preparations.  — /JMO (FREEMAN)