Pagasa launches upgraded storm surge warning system

MANILA, Philippines — The state weather bureau launched yesterday its upgraded storm surge warning system to help the public better prepare for tropical cyclone-related hazards like the one that struck Eastern Visayas during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 that left thousands dead.

In addition to the color-coded scheme, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)’s warning will now include the forecast storm surge heights and their corresponding impacts.

PAGASA’s Hydrometeorology, Tropical Meteorology and Instrument, Research and Development Section chief Maria Cecilia Monteverde said the improved warning system is classified into two – storm surge watch and storm surge warning.

The storm surge watch covers moderate to high-risk storm surges that may happen in the next 48 hours. The storm surge warning covers high-risk storm surge expected in the next 24 hours.

A storm surge pertains to the abnormal increase of water level along the seashore caused by strong winds brought by a tropical storm. 

PAGASA uses the colors blue (be informed, no evacuation needed); yellow (storm surge is possible, be aware); orange (storm surge is expected, be prepared) and red (storm surge is catastrophic, take action).

The blue warning means that surge of less than a meter is expected. It is likely to cause minor damage to communities, coastal/marine infrastructure and disruptions to all marine-related activities. Flooding is also possible in low-lying areas.

A yellow warning means surge from one to two meters is possible. Moderate to significant damage to communities, coastal/marine infrastructure and disruptions to all marine-related activities.

Under an orange warning, surge from two to three meters is expected. This can cause severe damage to communities, coastal/marine infrastructure and disruptions to all marine-related activities. Significant erosion to beaches is likely and possible river flooding.

The red warning means above three meters or catastrophic surge is expected. This could trigger life-threatening, extensive inundation and extreme damage to communities.

The new storm surge warning system can be viewed at PAGASA website www.bagongpagasa.dost.gov.ph.