By CESAR JOLITO III

The Sipalay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) reported no major damages in the city following the onslaught of Typhoon “Uwan” earlier this week.

CDRRMO chief Dionelo Bogtae said the effects of “Uwan” were generally minimal, with only minor clearing operations being conducted along the coastline and in areas affected by a landslide in Barangay Camp Valdez.

The Department of Public Works and Highways has taken charge of the clearing, while the Bureau of Fire Protection is assisting with flushing operations.

“As of now, we are closely monitoring the water level in the main rivers of Sipalay since the water suddenly rose, even though there is no rain,” Bogtae said.

He added that on Sunday, November 9, a brief 20-minute spell of strong winds and rain triggered a storm surge along the city’s beachfront, prompting authorities to initiate preemptive evacuations.

A total of 12 barangays were affected, with 23 evacuation centers opened to accommodate 141 families or 2,739 individuals.

All evacuees have since returned to their homes as of yesterday, following the stabilization of weather conditions.

Bogtae emphasized that the city government remains on heightened alert, continuously monitoring coastal and riverside areas to ensure the safety of residents in case of sudden water level changes./CJ, WDJ