By Alec Go
The province of Ilocos Norte has been placed under a state of calamity due to the massive impact of Typhoon “Egay” that continues to batter Northern Luzon this Wednesday, July 26.
Several portions of the province are currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4, including Burgos, Bangui, Dumalneg, Pagudpud, Vintar, Adams, Pasuquin, and Bacarra.
“The typhoon brought heavy rain, strong winds, and severe floods that caused massive damages to properties, agricultural crops, and disruption of means of livelihood in different areas of the province,” the provincial government said in its Facebook page.
The rest of Ilocos Norte is under Signal No. 3 as of 2:00 p.m.
The local government said damage assessment is ongoing, as well as the provision of assistance to affected communities.
“The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte and national government agencies are working tirelessly to restore essential services, address immediate needs, and provide support to those affected by the disaster,” the post read.
As of 2:00 p.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its bulletin that Portions of Ilocos Norte is forecast to continue experiencing “violent, life-threatening conditions” along with Babuyan Islands, the northwestern portion of mainland Cagayan, and the northern portions of Apayao.
“Egay” reached typhoon category on Tuesday morning, and was downgraded to typhoon category on Wednesday morning.
It first made landfall over Fuga Island in Aparri, Cagayan, followed by another landfall in Dalupiri Island in Calayan.
It is forecast to exit the Philippine area of responsibility on Thursday. – gb
