ILOILO CITY — Local government units (LGUs) are urged to take the lead in making the necessary preparations as Western Visayas is now experiencing a weak La Niña.
Director Oscar C. Tabada, director of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA) Visayas said that La Niña has “been looming in the past four weeks” when he made his presentation on climate outlook for 2018 during the fourth quarter meeting of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) on Wednesday afternoon.
La Niña is associated with short dry season, early onset of rainy season, strong monsoon activity, more tropical cyclones and below normal sea level pressure, he said.
In a follow up interview he cited that Iloilo City, which is prone to flooding, to take the necessary precaution. Among others, there is a need to identify and closely monitor areas vulnerable to flooding.
He cited that now is the time to “maximize rainwater harvesting.”
On the other hand, he advised that post-harvest facilities for drying and storage of agricultural products be undertaken. Likewise, farmers have to be provided with advisories regarding the occurrence of the phenomenon.
He added that La Niña may cause flooding in low-lying land, damage to crops and increase pests and diseases.
Aside from its impact on agriculture, Tabada warned of possible health risks, such as prevalence of water-borne diseases and damages to infrastructure.
He also warned of possible landslides and coastal erosion due to strong waves and storm surges.
Tabada also raised the need to conduct massive information and education campaign and for this phenomenon to be incorporated in lessons being taught in schools. (PNA)
