Isabela folk rush to brace homes against tropical storm Paolo

Isabela residents have begun stocking up on food and other essential supplies, and have reinforced their homes by tying roofs to keep them steady against the strong winds and rains expected to hit the province due to tropical storm Paolo.

The local public works personnel have also trimmed the branches of trees along the highway, a day before Paolo slams Northern Luzon, according to a "24 Oras" report by Jasmin Gabriel-Galban of GMA Regional TV.

"Maghanda ng pagkain, kasi 'yung tubig sa tulay kapag malakas ang ulan ay aapaw (We're stocking up food.  The water level usually rises and spills over the bridge when there is a downpour)," said Pacita Davin, a resident.

The Isabela Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) has also been put on alert.  Residents in the towns of Dinapigue, Divilacan, Maconacon and Palanan have been warned against the threat of a storm surge.

Authorities have also prohibited fishing and setting boats on sail.

"Nagkaroon kami ng briefing, naka-ready na ang mga logistics, rescue team, at maging pagkain ng mga evacuee (We had a briefing, the logistics, rescue teams, and food pack are ready)," said Exiquiel Quilang of the Isabela DRRMO.

Seven water search and rescue teams were deployed Thursday afternoon in several towns in the province.  Rescue boats and equipment are also put on standby.

The central and southern portion of Isabela are currently under Signal No. 2, as of Thursday afternoon.—LDF, GMA Integrated News