MANILA, PHILIPPINES – At least two people were confirmed dead and more than 3,000 people fled their homes in northern Philippines as Super Typhoon Noul (Dodong) slammed into several provinces, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) announced.
NDRRMC Executive Director Alexandar Pama said during the news briefing Monday morning that the two victims died even before Dodong made landfall but were counted as typhoon casualties because they were electrocuted while repairing the roof of their houses in preparation for the arrival of the typhoon.
The victims were identified as Rogelio Paa, 74, and his relative Neil Paa, 46, all residents of Barangay Mabanguc, Aparri, Cagayan.
The super typhoon caused heavy rains and strong winds as it passed Luzon and heads to Taiwan early Monday, snapping communication and power lines, uprooting trees, and destroying houses along its path.
Several provinces reported power failures, with thousands of residents fleeing their homes for threats of landslide, flash floods and storm surges.
According to the weather bureau, typhoon Dodong has maintained its strength as it move towards Batanes.
At 4 a.m. on Monday, the typhoon it was located at 185 km North of Aparri, Cagayan or at 50 km South of Basco, Batanes.
Dodong has maximum sustained winds of 160kph near the center and gustiness of up to 195kph. It is forecast to move North at 19kph.
Signal No.3 is hoisted in Babuyan and Calayan Group of Islands and Batanes. Meanwhile, Northern Cagayan is under Signal no. 2. Under Signal No.1 are the Rest of Cagayan, Apayao and Ilocos Norte
Estimated rainfall amount is from heavy to intense within the 100-km diameter of the typhoon, PAG ASA said.
Dodong is expected to exit the PAR by Tuesday morning (May 12).
Storm surges of up to 1.5 meters are possible over Gonzaga, Cagayan. Fisherfolks are advised not to venture out over the eastern seaboard of Luzon.
The public and DRRMCs concerned are advised to take appropriate actions and watch for the next bulletin to be issued at 11AM today. (PAGASA). – BusinessNewsAsia.com