Typhoon Ofel causes class suspensions in several provinces

Classes and government work have been suspended in several areas on Thursday, November 14, 2024, due to Typhoon Ofel.

These suspensions cover all levels from kinder to Grade 12 in both public and private schools in various provinces and municipalities including Apayao, Gonzaga, Cagayan, Batanes, Catanduanes, Quirino, Isabela, and Abra.

Some areas like Santiago in Isabela have extended suspensions until November 15.

In Batanes, government work is also suspended, with exceptions for disaster operations, health, and essential services.

Typhoon Ofel, packing maximum sustained winds of up to 165 kph with gusts up to 205 kph, was located 215 kilometers east of Echague, Isabela.

Signal No. 4 was hoisted over the northeastern portion of Cagayan due to the typhoon's intensification, with Pagasa not ruling out the possibility of raising Signal No. 5.

Signal No. 2 and 3 are also in effect over many Luzon areas.

Intense to torrential rains are expected in Cagayan and Isabela, potentially causing flooding and landslides.