Philippines on red alert for tropical depression

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said Tuesday that it is on red alert as the Philippines braces for the onslaught of tropical depression Ofel. NDRRMC executive director Benito T. Ramos said various regional and municipal disaster agencies particularly in central and southern Philippines have been directed to undertake precautionary measures. Ramos said the Philippine Coast Guard was also directed to warn small boats and fishing boats to not venture out to sea. State-run Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) raised signal number 1 in the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar, and Western Samar in central Philippines. Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Camiguin Island in southern Philippines are also under signal number 1. PAGASA warned residents in these areas of possible flashfloods and landslides. These areas are also expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Tropical depression Ofel is expected to make landfall between central and southern Philippines today and may exit the country by Friday or Saturday.