NDRRMC on blue alert for 'Nando'

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Monday went on blue alert for the possible effects of Tropical Cyclone Nando, which intensified into a tropical storm Monday afternoon.

According to the NDRRMC, the blue alert will allow it to continuously monitor and disseminate weather bulletins to civil defense units down to the town levels.

Under blue alert, at least 50 percent of its personnel should always be ready to respond to contingencies at any time.

The NDRRMC said that as of 3 a.m., PAGASA said the Magat Dam "released water from the reservoir in anticipation of the expected heavy inflow due to the weather disturbance."

It said the Department of Social Welfare and Development prepositioned P86.9 million worth of emergency relief resources including:

• P10.37 million in standby funds
• 58,262 food packs worth P35.43 million
• food items and non-food items worth P40.8 million

The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Bicol was also on blue alert, maintaining 24/7 duty as of Monday morning.

On Monday afternoon, PAGASA forecaster Chris Perez said Nando had intensified into a tropical storm and may linger in the Philippine area of responsibility until Thursday. — KBK, GMA News