Philippines: Typhoon Glenda kills at least 10, heads out into South China Sea
Typhoon Rammasun (Glenda) churned across the Philippines Wednesday killing at least 10 people and causing the evacuation of nearly a half million residents of the country of 7,000 islands.
As of 5:00 p.m., July 16, 2014, typhoon Glenda was located 190km west of Olongapo in the South China Sea. It has maximum sustained winds of 140 kph near the center and gustiness up to 170 kph. It is expected to move west northwest at 24kph.
Typhoon Glenda heads out to the South China Sea
Image/Pagasa
The powerful storm cut through just south of the National Capital Region (NCR) of Manila knocking out power of approximately 80 percent of residents. The effects of the storm are now easing the further it heads out to sea.
Reuters reports major roads across Luzon were blocked by debris, fallen trees, electricity poles and tin roofs ripped off village houses. The storm uprooted trees in the capital, where palm trees lining major arteries were bent over by the wind as broken hoardings bounced down the streets.
Secretary Edwin Lacierda, the Presidential Spokesperson, on typhoon Glenda released the following statement Tuesday:
“As we begin the work of restoring services and repairing the damage caused by Typhoon Glenda, let us take stock of the manner in which the public, media, local and national government agencies worked together to ensure preparations were in place, and information disseminated effectively and in a timely manner, during the approach and progress of the storm. Initial reports indicate that many areas achieved their zero casualty goals. We ask the public to continue monitoring media and online resources to keep updated on the weather and advisories concerning cleanup and restoring services. The President is monitoring the situation as the NDRRMC, DPWH, MMDA, DSWD, with the PNP and AFP, attend to evacuees, the surveying of vital infrastructure, and the clearing of roads. We appreciate the cooperation and assistance of the public in these tasks.
”Our priorities at this point include the health and welfare of evacuees, and the return of power and communications to communities. As developments arise and services are restored, rest assured the public will be kept informed.”
Classes are suspended Thursday for the following school districts: Camarines Sur (until July 18), San Juan City, Marikina City, Mandaluyong City, Muntinlupa City, Navotas City, Pateros, Batangas, Laguna, Bataan, Makati City, San Mateo, Rizal, Angono, Rizal, Malabon City, Paranaque City, Cavite province for all levels of education.
For preschool to high school only: Pasay City, Taguig (public only), Quezon City, Antipolo City, Cainta, Rizal, Taytay, Rizal. And for preschool only– Pasig City.
