Just when we thought...
Just when we thought we would end the year without having to go through another typhoon, here comes "Nona." "Nona" was spotted around six hundred five kilometers off Samar. It is expected to make landfall in Samar or the Bicol region by Monday afternoon or early evening. It is currently gaining strength as it hovers above the Pacific Ocean, where most typhoons are born. If the typhoon gains further strength when it hits the country, we may be looking at yet another calamity.
Gov. Joey Salceda of Albay has suspended classes in all levels, even in the absence of any storm signal, as a precaution. Other government agencies such as the NDRRMC and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) are already on standby, as well as the DILG. Maritime travel has been suspended as well, stranding hundreds of holiday-season passengers.
Again, better safe than sorry. According to PAGASA, the typhoon may stay within the country for five days. Flood and storm surge warnings have already been raised, especially for low-lying and coastal areas. Contingencies are already in place, and concerned personnel already mobilized. Even the President is keeping an eye on the typhoon.
I really thought we would not see any major weather disturbance for the rest of the year. The weather is actually warm for December. We seem to have gotten used to long periods without major weather disturbances, we forgot that Mother Nature can change her mind just like that.
It is hoped that as "Nona" nears, the warm weather will have a dissipating effect on the strength of the typhoon. The chance of the typhoon veering off to the north and missing the country is close to nil.
The country is already gearing up for the holidays. The horrendous traffic is a testament to that. If you plan to go to any of the many malls in Metro Manila, chances are you would spend the good part of at least two hours stuck in traffic, or waiting to enter car park buildings.
Unless you make it to the malls by the time they open, forget about it. A strong typhoon lashing out at the country will only put a damper into everyone's plans. Something we don't really need, nor want.
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