By Strong Monsoon Rains and Typhoon Carina Prompt Class and Work Suspension in Baguio City and Benguet
Baguio City and the province of Benguet are currently experiencing severe monsoon rains exacerbated by the approaching Typhoon Carina. As a precautionary measure, local government units (LGUs) have announced the suspension of classes and government work, along with various road closures to ensure public safety.
Typhoon Carina: Current Status and Forecast
As of the latest PAGASA Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 15 issued at 11:00 AM on July 23, 2024, Typhoon Carina has slightly intensified as it moves northward over the Philippine Sea. The center of Typhoon Carina was located 320 km east of Basco, Batanes, with maximum sustained winds of 140 km/h and gustiness up to 170 km/h. The typhoon is currently moving northward at 15 km/h.
Impact on Baguio City and Benguet
The enhanced Southwest Monsoon, in conjunction with Typhoon Carina, is expected to bring significant rainfall to Baguio City and Benguet. The forecast accumulated rainfall includes:
- 50-100 mm: Baguio City and Benguet
The heavy rains are anticipated to cause flooding and rain-induced landslides, particularly in elevated or mountainous areas. Strong to gale-force winds are also expected to affect the region, with potential impacts including minor to moderate threats to life and property.
Suspension Announcements
Baguio City
The Local Government of Baguio has announced the suspension of classes in all levels of educational institutions (private and public) and work in City Government Offices today from 12 noon onwards due to the latest PAGASA forecast.
Note:
- The decision to suspend work in all local agencies of National Government Offices is left to the discretion of their corresponding Regional or Central Office.
- The decision to suspend work in private business establishments and offices shall be at the discretion of their heads of office.
La Trinidad
An executive order was issued declaring the suspension of classes in all levels, both in public and private educational institutions, and work in all government offices/institutions in the Municipality of La Trinidad from 2:00 PM onwards.
Tuba
Work is suspended in government offices/institutions in the Municipality of Tuba from 2:00 PM onwards on July 23, 2024.
Executive Order No. 060-07-2024
Itogon
Due to heavy rainfall, Mayor Bernard S. Waclin has issued an executive order declaring the suspension of work in all government offices, including national line agencies, barangay LGUs, and personnel from both public and private schools, starting at 3:00 PM.
Executive Order No. 13, s. 2024
Road Closures and Safety Measures
In light of the severe weather, authorities have announced various road closures and are urging the public to stay updated on the latest advisories. As per DPWH Cordillera, the following road closures in the area include:
- Asin-Nangalisan-San Pascual Road (K0272+800, Sitio Payakpak, San Pascual) is NOT PASSABLE due to landslide.
- Baguio-Bauang Road (K0260+160, Sitio Yagyagan, Sablan, Benguet) is ONE LANE PASSABLE due to a fallen tree.
- Kennon Road is NOT PASSABLE until further notice.
Alternate Routes:
- Marcos Highway
- Baguio-Bauang Road
Tourism Advisory
Due to the bad weather conditions, Atok Municipal Tourism also advised the public to postpone their travel to Atok, Benguet until further notice. This measure is being taken to ensure the safety of all visitors.
Public Advisory
Considering these developments, the public and disaster risk reduction and management offices concerned are advised to take all necessary measures to protect life and property. Persons living in areas identified to be highly or very highly susceptible to these hazards are advised to follow evacuation and other instructions from local officials.
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