PRC braces for Tropical Storm Megi

With Tropical Storm Megi expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between 12:00 and 2:00 a.m. tomorrow, Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is preparing for the possible landfall over the eastern coast of Cagayan-Isabela area on Monday afternoon.

The PRC-Operation Center is constantly monitoring this weather disturbance.

As of 10:00 a.m., Megi, which will be codenamed "Juan" once inside the Philippine territory, was spotted 1,300 kilometers east of southern Luzon.

PRC advised its Emergency Response Units to stand by for possible deployment as Megi is expected to bring rains as much as that of Ondoy to affected areas.

Rescue equipment, rubber boats, generator sets, fuel and vehicles are likewise ready should the tropical storm cause landslides or floods.

Additional emergency supplies are being provided to PRC chapters in Luzon. PRC staff and volunteers are also starting to pack relief items such as food, sleeping items and hygiene kits which will be distributed in the aftermath of the tropical storm.

Below are some reminders on what to do before, during and after the typhoon.

Before the Typhoon
-Store an adequate supply of food and clean water. Prepare foods that need not be cooked.
-Keep flashlights, candles and battery-powered radios within easy reach.
-Examine your house and repair its unstable parts.
-Always keep yourself updated with the latest weather report.
-Harvest crops that can be yielded already.
-Secure domesticated animals in a safe place.
-For fisher folks, place boats in a safe area.
-Should you need to evacuate, bring clothes, first aid kit, candles/flashlight, battery-powered radio, food, etc.

During the Typhoon
-Stay inside the house.
-Always keep yourself updated with the latest weather report.
-If safe drinking water is not available, boil water for at least 20 minutes. Place it in a container with cover.
-Keep an eye on lighted candles or gas lamps.
-Do not wade through floodwaters to avoid being electrocuted and contracting diseases.
-If there is a need to move to an evacuation center, follow these reminders:
-Evacuate calmly.
-Close the windows and turn off the main power switch.
-Put important appliances and belongings in a high ground.
-Avoid the way leading to the river.

After the Typhoon
-If your house was destroyed, make sure that it is already safe and stable when you enter.
-Beware of dangerous animals such as snakes that may have entered your house.
-Watch out for live wires or outlet immersed in water.
-Report damaged electrical cables and fallen electric posts to the authorities.
-Do not let water accumulate in tires, cans or pots to avoid creating a favorable condition for mosquito breeding.

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