Tropical Storm Nika prompts evacuations, class suspensions in Camarines Sur, Albay

Local government units in Camarines Sur and Albay ordered mandatory evacuations and suspension of classes on Saturday, November 9, due to Tropical Storm Nika.

In Libon town, Albay, more than 1,200 people were evacuated by Sunday morning as the storm maintained its strength, with most families from high-risk areas being moved since October 21 when Severe Tropical Storm Kristine caused flooding.

Disaster management teams in Camarines Sur began mandatory evacuations on Sunday morning for families living in flood-prone and landslide-affected areas.

Albay Governor Bongao advised village officials to monitor flood-prone, lahar-affected, and landslide-prone areas and implement localized evacuations as needed.

In-person classes were suspended in several towns of Albay, with schools encouraged to use alternative learning methods.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for multiple provinces, including parts of Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, and the northeastern portion of Albay.

All water activities and sea travel were suspended in affected areas of the Bicol region to ensure public safety.