Take precaution vs lahar, PAGASA advises people in areas near Pinatubo

State weather forecasters on Saturday warned residents near Mount Pinatubo in Central Luzon of rain that could loosen lahar deposits from the volcano. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the land in Zambales and Pampanga is already saturated from days of rain. "Kaunti lang ang pag-ulan... possible ang risk ng lahar doon. Maging alerto at sumunod sa local government unit," PAGASA forecaster Fernando Cada said in an interview on dzBB radio. Pinatubo erupted in 1991, sending tons of lahar to the areas around it. Cada said the Central Luzon region, including areas near Pinatubo, is at risk of flash floods and landslides due to rain. "Meron tayong widespread rain na posible mag-trigger ng flash flood at landslide. Kahit light to moderate ang rain, saturated ang lupa sa Zambales at Pampanga," he said. Earlier Saturday, PAGASA issued a special rain advisory for lahar areas around Pinatubo. Shortly after 12 a.m., it noted thunderstorm clouds looming over Cabangan and Botolan, Zambales moving towards the Pinatubo area. "This may bring moderate rain in the area and in adjacent towns within the next few hours," it said. "All are advised to take appropriate steps to avoid any inconveniences, and watch out for further updates," it added. — LBG, GMA News