Experts warn: prepare now for strong winds and floods
DAVAO CITY (November 7) — As Mindanao continues to recover from the devastation of Typhoon Tino, which claimed nearly 200 lives in Cebu and parts of Visayas, another weather system is fast approaching the country — and it could become a super typhoon.
The state weather bureau PAGASA said Severe Tropical Storm Fung-Wong will enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) early Saturday, November 8, when it will be locally named Uwan. It is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon and possibly intensify further by Sunday, November 9, as it moves northwest toward Luzon.
While Uwan’s direct path may not cross Mindanao, its outer rainbands could still bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to parts of the island, especially the Caraga, Davao, and Northern Mindanao regions. PAGASA warned that the highest alert level, Signal No. 5, may be raised in areas closer to its track.
‘Prepare early,’ experts urge
Disaster scientist Mahar Lagmay, executive director of the UP Resilience Institute and Project NOAH, said Filipino families — including those in Mindanao — should not be complacent even if they are far from the storm’s center.
“Mindanao has seen how intense rainfall can trigger landslides and floods. Preparation should always start days ahead,” Lagmay said.
He emphasized two key threats: powerful winds and intense rainfall.
1. Secure your home.
Reinforce roofs and walls, and trim tree branches that could fall. If your house is unsafe or near a landslide-prone area, move early to designated evacuation centers.
2. Check your local hazards.
Visit Project NOAH to view flood, landslide, and storm surge maps for your barangay. Lagmay said areas without color markings are generally safer and could serve as temporary evacuation routes.
3. Use NOAH Studio.
This impact-based forecasting tool can help identify which communities are likely to flood. It correctly pinpointed the areas in Cebu that were submerged during Tino, Lagmay added.
4. Pack your emergency go-bag.
Include:
- IDs and important documents in waterproof pouches
- Medicines and first aid kit
- Hygiene kit
- Flashlight, batteries, and power bank
- Ready-to-eat food and bottled water
5. Avoid risky travel.
Landslides and floods can block roads during heavy rain. Residents near major rivers should also be alert for possible dam releases or overflowing tributaries.
Stay informed
Mindanao residents are advised to monitor updates from PAGASA, the NDRRMC, OCD-Davao, and their local disaster offices. PAGASA issues bulletins every three hours starting 2 a.m. daily.
“Preparation saves lives. Let’s act early, especially in communities still recovering from Tino,” Lagmay said.
