Hundreds evacuate in La Union as Tropical Storm Maymay nears

Hundreds of families in La Union moved to safer ground on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 as coastal communities prepared for the expected impact of Tropical Storm #MaymayPH, with residents fearing storm surges similar to those brought by a previous tropical cyclone.

Residents living along the coast moved early to evacuation centers even before heavy rain began. Although the weather was still calm in the morning, strong waves and rough seas were already seen along the shoreline.

Many families raised their belongings to higher places and secured their fishing boats as a precaution.

Around 9 a.m., residents started arriving at evacuation centers, including Catbangen Central School in San Fernando City.

One resident, Johnny Centeno, said living near the coast becomes difficult whenever a storm approaches.

“Mahirap dito kapag may bagyo,” he said.

Susan Alaba, an evacuee, said her family decided to leave their home because it is prone to flooding during storms.

“Lumikas na kami dito kasi mataas ang tubig sa amin kapag bagyo, daluyan ng tubig sa bahay namin,” she said.

Janice Harquio, a barangay councilwoman, said residents living along the coast were prioritized for evacuation because of the threat of storm surges.

“Yung mga nasa tabing dagat, sila kasi ang affected ng storm surge. Nakakatakot,” she said.

Authorities also warned residents to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides as the cyclone approaches.

The La Union provincial government said it has activated its emergency response measures, with rescue vehicles and other equipment already positioned in strategic areas. Relief supplies have also been prepared.

Provincial Information Officer John Martin said authorities have intensified monitoring as the province braces for the typhoon's impact.

“Inihahanda na ang mga relief supplies. Kung before may habagat, ngayon mas intensified ang ating pagbabantay dahil sa inaasahang tatama dito ang bagyo. Naka-red alert tayo ngayon,” he said.

The effects of #MaymayPH were expected to be felt in La Union by Wednesday evening. —Jasmin Gabriel-Galban, GMA Regional TV News