By Xander Ledesma
Bacolod City is bracing for the arrival of Super Typhoon Leon, which entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on October 30, 2024. With wind speeds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, the storm has intensified rapidly, prompting local authorities to initiate precautionary measures to safeguard the city’s residents and infrastructure.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued warnings for Bacolod City and surrounding areas in Negros Occidental, forecasting heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. Bacolod, like many parts of the Philippines, is no stranger to tropical storms and typhoons. However, Super Typhoon Leon’s magnitude is raising alarm due to its intensity and the potential for widespread disruption.
In response to the looming threat, Bacolod’s local government has activated emergency protocols. Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has confirmed that disaster response plans are in place, including the establishment of evacuation centers and the mobilization of local emergency teams. Bacolod residents have also begun preparing for the storm, with increased demand for emergency supplies such as food, water, and flashlights. Many are bracing for possible power outages and communication disruptions, which are common in the wake of severe typhoons.
In addition to immediate preparations, experts warn that the Philippines’ increasing vulnerability to powerful storms is tied to climate change. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has highlighted the importance of improving disaster resilience across the country, particularly in typhoon-prone regions like Negros Occidental. As Bacolod prepares for the worst, local and national agencies are coordinating their efforts to ensure that resources and relief teams are ready for deployment.
With the storm’s landfall expected soon, Bacolod City’s preparedness will be put to the test. The community’s resilience, combined with government efforts, will play a critical role in minimizing the impact of Super Typhoon Leon and ensuring a swift recovery in its aftermath.