Pangasinan was one of the hardest-hit areas by Typhoon Pepito in Northern Luzon.
At 8:00 in the morning yesterday, November 17, DOST-PAGASA issued a warning for a possible storm surge in the province.
Thus, the DRRMOs of each town conducted coastal monitoring and observation.
“So far, sir, we haven’t recorded any storm surge effects, although we have some barangays affected by flooding, but these are due to flash floods, not storm surge,” said Vincent Chiu, Operation and Training Head of the Pangasinan PDRRMO.
Clearing operations are also underway for fallen trees along roads.
In San Nicolas, Villa Verde Road is still impassable due to a landslide.
Motorists are advised to temporarily use the Umingan – Lupao Road instead.
Clearing operations continue on the affected roads.
A total of 1,441 families from various towns were evacuated starting yesterday and are temporarily staying in evacuation centers.
However, by this morning, some evacuees returned home, and more residents are expected to return as the rain and winds have eased.
No deaths or fatalities have been recorded so far from the typhoon.
“Based on the report given to us, around eight to ten areas have experienced landslides,” Chiu mentioned.
Yesterday, the San Roque Dam released water.
According to Chiu, “Yesterday, two gates were opened at San Roque, but as of now, only one gate is still open. However, we are monitoring the San Roque Dam. Its current level is 278.5 meters above sea level, and one of the gates is opened by 0.5 meters.”
Currently, the people of Pangasinan are still being advised to remain cautious and avoid going out to sea.
Even residents experiencing flooding are being evacuated.
“The evacuation centers and relief teams are ready to help. Sufficient relief boxes are available, but we need everyone’s cooperation to ensure your safety. Let’s all be careful, and may we be guided by the Almighty,” said Governor Ramon V. Guico III.
The full extent of the damage caused by Typhoon Pepito in the province is still being assessed.
**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
