Rolly-hit Catanduanes residents brace anew for Ulysses

Catanduanes residents who are still reeling from the onslaught of Typhoon Rolly are once again bracing themselves for the impact of Tropical Storm Ulysses.

According to Ian Cruz’ “24 Oras” report on Tuesday, the provincial government of Catanduanes ordered the evacuation of residents in hazard-prone areas.

With many schools heavily damaged by Rolly, however, residents are instead taking shelter in private homes made of concrete.

“Pinag-iisipan namin kung saan pang evacuation center puwede silang pumunta dahil 2,225 ang nawalan ng kabahayan,” Bato Mayor Juan Rodulfo said.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 was raised over Catanduanes ahead of Ulysses’ expected landfall over Quezon on Thursday morning. 

PAGASA also said the tropical storm will likely make a close approach to Catanduanes and Camarines Norte on Wednesday.

“Bagamat ang direction is pataas, hindi pa rin tayo nagtitiwala kaya kaninang umaga nag-memo tayo for a force evacuation,” Governor Joseph Cua said.

Rolly has claimed at least 25 lives, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.  — Julia Mari Ornedo/BM, GMA News