In Tuguegarao City, the impact of Typhoon Nika, known internationally as Toraji, has led to severe flooding, affecting 3,918 families or 12,866 individuals across 35 villages. The situation deteriorated further when the Magat Dam released water, exacerbating floods in low-lying areas of Cagayan province. Despite a slight decrease in water levels at Buntun Bridge, Mayor Maila Rosario Ting-Que remains vigilant as another typhoon, Ofel (international name Usagi), approaches, promising more rain and potential flooding.
Mayor Que has called on residents to brace for Typhoon Ofel, emphasizing the urgency of the situation with the city already experiencing significant flooding. She noted that water levels surged from three meters on Monday to over 11 meters by Tuesday due to continuous rainfall from Typhoon Nika. The mayor specifically urged those in high-risk zones to evacuate immediately, not only for their safety but also to allow emergency responders, who have been tirelessly working through multiple typhoons, some much-needed rest.
In response to the flooding, Mayor Que has suspended classes and government office operations. State weather specialist Cris Perez has advised that preparations for Typhoon Ofel should be finalized by the end of the day, as it nears extreme Northern Luzon. He also suggested moving relief goods to affected areas, particularly Cagayan Valley, before Thursday. Preparations for the incoming Tropical Storm Man-yi, to be named Pepito locally, should be completed by Friday.
According to the state weather bureau’s 5 p.m. bulletin, Typhoon Ofel’s eye was approximately 425 km east of Baler, Aurora. It is expected to move west to northwestward over the Philippine Sea, potentially making landfall along the east coast of Cagayan or Isabela by Thursday afternoon. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been hoisted over Cagayan, including Babuyan Islands, and parts of Isabela, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte. Signal No. 1 is in effect for Batanes, the rest of Isabela, Quirino, parts of Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, the rest of Ilocos Norte, and parts of Aurora.