Residents of San Fernando in Alicia, Isabela, are grappling with the severe impacts of Typhoon Nika as it swept through the area, causing widespread destruction early Monday morning. Power poles partially collapsed, wires were tangled and damaged, and many homes sustained significant structural damage as the typhoon’s strong winds and intense rainfall battered the region.
According to the 8:00 AM update from PAGASA, Cauayan City and surrounding areas in Isabela are currently under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 4, which indicates extremely strong winds and heavy rainfall. The typhoon has intensified rapidly, with sustained winds reaching dangerous speeds that caused havoc across the province. Local officials have been quick to mobilize rescue and repair efforts, but the continuous heavy rainfall has hampered their response and added to the challenges faced by affected residents.
Images from San Fernando, Alicia, show fallen power poles and uprooted trees strewn across roads, making some areas impassable. Local authorities have confirmed that the power supply to most parts of the municipality has been cut off as a safety measure, given the extensive damage to power infrastructure. The Isabela Electric Cooperative (ISELCO) has dispatched crews to inspect the damage, though full restoration of power is expected to take several days due to the severity of the situation.
Residents reported terrifying scenes as roofs were torn off houses, and walls buckled under the relentless wind pressure. Many families have evacuated to safer areas or taken shelter in evacuation centers set up by the local government. Authorities continue to assess the damage and offer assistance to those affected.
In nearby Cauayan City, residents are also experiencing strong winds and heavy rains. Local disaster management teams are on high alert, monitoring low-lying areas for potential flooding and landslides. Governor Faustino Dy III has advised residents to remain indoors, stay updated on PAGASA advisories, and prepare for possible extended power outages.
PAGASA has cautioned residents to brace for continuous rain throughout the day, warning of potential flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas. Local government units (LGUs) have been instructed to prioritize the safety of residents, and responders are actively clearing roads of debris to maintain emergency access.
As Typhoon Nika continues its path, residents of Isabela remain vigilant, with the hope that conditions will improve soon. The resilience of the affected communities will be critical as they work to rebuild and recover from the devastation left in the typhoon’s wake.