When they initially announced the typhoon name, I initially thought that “Ruby” was the international name while “Hagupit” was the local name. We now have a big typhoon with an international name in Filipino which literally translates to the “lashing of a whip”.
If you’ve been living here in the Philippines all your life, then these things are no longer new to you. You already know the drill: you have to be prepared and you have to make sure that you stay informed with all the updates about the typhoon which is set to hit Manila tonight.
Also, even if you’re lucky enough to have been spared from any harm during the past few super typhoons, don’t take things for granted. You’ll never know when an Emergency Kit will save you.
Finally, in this changing world, it’s so easy to rely on the internet for information. That’s why I’ve listed down the news accounts I follow on Twitter. Do you also know that you can TURN ON your NOTIFICATIONS for certain accounts so that you will be notified for updates? My phone always notifies me whenever @DOST_PAGASA tweets.
Weather:
Department of Science & Technology – Philippine Atmostpheric Geophysical & Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) @dost_pagasa
Local News Channels:
@ANCALERTS
@ABSCBNNews
@GMANewsOnline
Local Newspapers:
@PhilippineStar
@InquirerDotNet
Other Government Accounts:
Department of Education: @DepEd_PH
Official Gazette: @govph
Organization:
@RescuePH
(Please feel free to add if there’s anything I’ve missed).
You may also follow #RubyPH on Twitter for updates about the typhoon and #walangpasok for news about the suspension of classes.
Conversely, we can’t just rely on our mobile phones. If there’s a prolonged power outage we might not have enough battery to be online all the time. Remember that they usually shut down certain areas when there’s a thunder storm or flood for residents of certain areas to be able to get out of their houses while holding on to power lines. Also, cell sites get damaged sometimes due to the strong winds. So, this is where the good old flashlight, radio and batteries come in handy.
Anyway, this is the best time to use your social media account to remind your friends and relatives to be more alert and prepared about the incoming typhoon. Also, updates and warnings via status updates and photos about your area will greatly benefit a number of people.
With that, stay safe everyone!
XOXO,
Tipsy & Ponggo
Related Reads:
What
What to do During a Typhoon
Revisiting: The Yolanda Victims of Iloilo
Reasons Why It’s Good to Give
How to Help the Typhoon Haiyan / Yolanda Victims
