Last week's announcement that Typhoon "Juan" (known internationally as "Megi") was classified as a super typhoon had the whole country clamoring for news and updates about the storm's projected movement across the northern part of the country. "Juan" is the first of a series of storms to hit the Philippines in next three months. "Siya ang pinakamalakas so far, pero for this year ang projection namin may mga malalakas na bagyo pa na darating," said Natahaniel Servando, deputy administrator of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Adminstration (PAGASA).
As of PAGASA's 5:00 PM update on Typhoon Juan, the storm was located 70 kilometers outside of Tugegarao City, and is expected to exit the country somewhere around the Ilocos Sur-La Union area.
Take note of the official Twitter accounts of these government agencies and news organizations for quick updates on Juan as it weaves itself across northern Luzon.
In case you don't already check the following websites regularly, try:
- ABS-CBN News
- GMA News
- Inquirer.net
- Philstar.com
- Typhoon Juan Updates on Facebook (created by the Philippine Information Agency)
GMANews.TV has also put up an information system database where individuals can submit reports of missing persons, impassable areas and available shelters as well as pleas for rescue. The site also provides a map where people sending in the report can pinpoint their exact location to expedite rescue efforts.
You may also want to do a checkup on your emergency kits and disaster measures. The following FN articles will help you do just that:
- FN Survival Guide: Basic Disaster Measures
- FN Survival Guide: What to Do in a Flood
- First Aid Kits, Flashlights, and Other Essentials for Typhoons, Floods, and Other Disasters
(Typhoon Juan satellite image courtesy of PAGASA)
