By: Jose Robert Inventor

Several homes in La Union were nearly swept away as a powerful storm lashed the province with heavy rains and strong winds.

Seventeen towns remain without electricity as authorities continue assessment and recovery operations.

Residents spent a long and restless night as the storm, locally referred to as Super Bagyong Uwan, battered the province.

In Tubao, strong gusts toppled trees, prompting immediate clearing operations in coordination with local authorities.

Barangay Bautista in Caba experienced similar damage, where debris blocked roads and emergency crews worked to restore normalcy.

“We immediately conducted clearing operations in the area together with the Coast Guard Caba Substation,” said a Caba local, describing the efforts to reopen the streets.

By morning, the full extent of the storm’s damage became visible.

In Barangay Poro Point, San Fernando City, the combined force of waves and wind left several houses in ruins.

Videos shared online showed a small watercraft washed ashore along the baywalk, while portions of the road were damaged by heavy surf.

Residents began cleaning their homes of sand and water left by the storm.

Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega, in a phone interview, said, “Right now, almost all our people in the shoreline areas are affected. We are reassessing the situation, and some of our communications are experiencing minor issues.”

In Luna, fallen tree branches littered streets, while waves continued to hit coastal areas, affecting Luna and Bacnotan.

Clearing operations have also started in Agoo.

The governor added that the power supply is affected in several towns. “There are 17 towns experiencing power interruptions. Some areas cannot immediately receive electricity until we ensure all lines are safe,” he said.

Because of damaged roofs, some evacuees from Luna Sports Center in Barangay Alcala were relocated to Namacpacan Parish Church in Barangay Victoria, Luna.

Relief operations continue across the province.

“Relief distribution is ongoing. Even our local government is augmenting efforts, and we are also coordinating with DSWD for additional support,” Governor Ortega said.

According to the latest report from PDRRMO La Union, over 900 families, or more than 2,000 individuals, were affected by the storm.

Authorities are still verifying reports to ensure accurate data on the damage.