As Tropical Depression Querubin intensified on Tuesday, local government units across the Caraga region ramped up their preparations. The weather bureau confirmed the development of the low-pressure area into a tropical depression, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
In Surigao del Norte, the towns of San Francisco and Placer took the precautionary measure of suspending classes due to the heavy downpours. Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers, who leads the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, issued a timely advisory on Monday, suggesting that local class suspensions be considered based on the specific weather conditions in each area.
Governor Barbers highlighted that Surigao del Norte could see rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters until December 19, 2024, with higher amounts expected in mountainous regions. He emphasized the need for municipal mayors to work closely with school officials and local disaster management teams to make informed decisions about class suspensions. Additionally, he advised residents in areas susceptible to flooding and landslides to stay alert.
The Coast Guard in Siargao issued a warning on Monday, advising small vessels and fishing boats to avoid going out to sea due to the hazardous conditions brought about by the weather disturbance.
In Agusan del Sur, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council noted rising water levels in major rivers, particularly in Rosario and Bunawan, where several barangays were already dealing with floods. The local government in La Paz decided to suspend classes at all levels on Monday as the heavy rains continued.
In Surigao del Sur, Bislig City’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office issued a memorandum on Tuesday, temporarily halting fishing and beach activities. Earlier, the Coast Guard in Surigao del Sur had stopped the operations of vessels and watercraft under 15 gross tons.
Local governments in the Dinagat Islands and Agusan del Norte issued advisories through their municipal disaster management councils, urging residents to remain vigilant and keep up with weather updates.
In Butuan City, the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office carried out a pre-disaster risk assessment on Tuesday afternoon to evaluate the potential effects of Querubin and to devise suitable response strategies.