LAOAG CITY (PIA) – Governor Matthew Marcos declares suspension of classes in all levels of public and private schools in Ilocos Norte on Tuesday, August 23 due to the inclement weather brought by Tropical Storm Florita.

The announcement also includes work in government offices, except for those first responders during calamities such as medical and rescue teams.

In view of the potential impacts of the tropical storm, the provincial government has conducted a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment meeting on Monday afternoon.

In the meeting, Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos urged a whole-of-nation approach among government agencies and private stakeholders for the safety and welfare of the people.

“Let’s keep everyone safe and at least we know everyone (concerned government agencies) are ready and prepared,” said the vice governor.

In the latest situational report of the provincial government’s disaster risk reduction and management office at 8 p.m. on August 22, the following are reported incidents and initial damages in the province caused by Florita:

In the municipality of Pinili, two families from Barangay Bulbulala have been evacuated to the barangay hall. About 62 houses in some barangays are submerged due to flooding.

Meanwhile in Adams, Smart telecommunication is still unserviceable while Globe Telecom has unstable signal.

In the report of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), all national roads are passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 8 p.m. on Monday, the province of Ilocos Norte is under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 wherein moderate to heavy rains are being experienced. (JCR/JNPD/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)