The Public Storm Warning Signal #1 (PSWS) alerts residents of impending meteorological conditions. Its number and the warning time are based on four factors: intensity, circulation size, direction, and speed. Today USA explains the PSWS and its benefits to residents. The approximate lead time is valid for the first time the signal is activated. In general, PSWS signals are issued in advance of a storm. However, the exact time will vary from one location to the next.
Tropical cyclone warning signal #1
A tropical cyclone warning signal is being raised over Northern Luzon, the Island groups and Hong Kong, as the storm approaches the southern Philippines. The storm is estimated to be 690 kilometers east of Aparri, near Cagayan, on Thursday, and will make landfall on Friday. The State weather bureau has warned of heavy rains, landslides, and damage to property. The cyclone will likely leave the Philippines by Saturday evening.
The Philippine Coast Guard has issued a series of updates on the situation. On Thursday, it said that Tropical Depression Usman was expected to intensify into a tropical storm and make landfall over Eastern Samar on Friday. It is currently moving at 15 km/h, down from 20 km/h earlier. It may affect Eastern Visayas and northern Caraga. Maritime travel will be disrupted. The storm is expected to affect many areas of the Philippines.
The PSWS ranges from one to seven. PSWS #1 means gale force winds in the N, S, and E. The PSWS for Ticao and Sorsogon are both at this level. Residents should seek shelter in emergency rooms if they are in a large tree. If you’re unsure of the weather for your area, you can call 911. A local emergency manager will help you find shelter in a hospital or another location.
Also Read: What is the Name Niggere?
Signs of a tropical cyclone
In addition to its definite name, a public storm warning signal indicates the intensity, speed, and direction of a tropical cyclone. During its development, the cyclone could cause heavy damage to coastal communities and the sea. It may also disrupt electrical and communications services. The general public is advised to seek shelter in high-rise buildings, and avoid low-lying areas, as they may flood during heavy rains. Schools are urged to suspend classes and keep children inside buildings, which are deemed safe and secure.
If the PSWS is issued, then there is a strong probability that the cyclone will produce heavy rain within 36 hours and winds of 60-100 kph. At this time, residents should avoid going outside during the storm, evacuate low-lying areas, and cancel outdoor activities. The PSWS will continue to issue warnings as the cyclone continues to develop.
Depending on the severity of the cyclone, the PSWS may be upgraded to a higher level. If a typhoon is approaching or moving away, a PSWS #2 or PSWS #3 might be issued. When the typhoon has dissipated and the conditions have improved, a PSWS #4 may be issued. This warning signal should be followed by an announcement from the government and local authorities.
Impact of a storm on a community
There are two kinds of impacts caused by a storm – direct and indirect. The former are most visible and result in physical damage and loss of life during the storm. The latter are more difficult to measure. The direct impacts are the costs of repairing damaged homes and public infrastructure, while indirect impacts are those of public health, such as the need for fresh water. These costs must be estimated, and they are part of an ongoing social process.
However, these costs and benefits are often not associated in societal estimates of hurricane impacts. For example, after a hurricane damages a region’s agricultural production, the prices of commodities rise. While this is bad news for farmers who live in the area, it also creates economic benefits for others. Thus, a hurricane’s impact is sometimes positive on a national level. But there are a lot of variables that must be considered before determining the economic effects of a storm.
As hurricanes approach coastal areas, sea levels can rise. The low pressure caused by a storm allows the water level to creep up. This rising water will flood low-lying areas and drown coastal towns. In severe cases, storm surge can destroy homes and infrastructure, and erode beaches. But the damage is often temporary. As a result, it will be necessary to rebuild damaged infrastructure and restore normalcy in the area after a hurricane.
Also Read: Felices Fiestas 2020 Explained
Upgrading or downgrading PSWS signals
The Met Office issues a Public Storm Warning Signal number when severe weather is imminent. PSWS numbers are based on several factors, including storm intensity, speed, and direction. A PSWS is issued for a certain geographic area and can be upgraded or downgraded as the disturbance passes through the PAR. In general, the intensity of PSWS #1 indicates light damage to low-risk structures. If a tropical cyclone is expected to form in the Pacific Northwest, the PSWS is issued in that region.
PSWS numbers alert the public about impending meteorological conditions, such as high waves and wind gusts. If you’re in a coastal area, a PSWS of 1 means you should stay indoors and avoid traveling. It’s important to note that the PSWS may shift direction and speed during the time it’s signaling the PSWS. Regardless of the change in PSWS numbers, PSWSs will continue to give you advance warning of impending meteorological conditions.
In addition to storm signals, you should also pay attention to a PAGASA advisory, which is usually posted on their website. In addition to PAGASA’s warning, the university’s Communication and Public Relations Office will post announcements through official channels. As a result, classes will automatically be canceled when the storm signals are raised. If you are in the area, you should take precautions to keep your family safe. Moreover, you should stay indoors and pray for safety.
Timeline of PSWS signals
When a public storm warning signal is raised, the associated weather disturbance is expected 36 hours from the time of the first bulletin. As the storm approaches, however, the lead time is shorter. The number of days for the associated storm varies, based on forecast intensities, size, direction, and speed. The number on the PSWS is updated if the conditions become worse. This article will explain the changes in PSWS numbers.
In the event of a PSWS of No. 1, rain will fall for 36 hours. Winds may reach sixty to one hundred kilometers per hour. In such a situation, there will likely be moderate to severe damage. In these situations, people in vulnerable areas should evacuate to safer shelters as soon as possible. Additionally, schools should suspend classes until the storm passes. These are just a few of the precautionary measures that disaster preparedness agencies should take when a PSWS is raised.
In the Philippines, the PSWS was upgraded from one level to four. The PSWS now includes the weather, impacts of wind, and precautionary measures to take. For example, if the storm is expected to hit the coast of a nation, a signal of Public Storm Warning Signal #1 could be more accurate than one warning level. The signal can then rise to a Level 2, 3 or 4, depending on its strength and duration.
Preparation for a storm
If you’re in an area that’s prone to hurricanes, you should be prepared by keeping your gas tank filled and outdoor furnishings inside. Also, stock up on emergency supplies and make an emergency communication plan for yourself and family. You can also turn off your propane tank and unplug small appliances. Close storm shutters and secure outdoor items. You should also move to higher ground, such as a garage or basement, if possible. Avoid walking through floodwater if you can.
Evacuate as quickly as possible if your area is under threat. Several small delays could lead to hours of traffic. Filling gas tanks and making sure you have cash in case you need to evacuate is important. Before leaving, know where the nearest emergency shelters are and how to reach them in the fastest time. If you live in a flooded area, map out multiple routes and plan for alternative transportation, such as by car.
When preparing for a hurricane, make sure your water supply is up to par. You should have at least two weeks’ worth of water and supplies in case of a severe storm. Water is vital for the basic needs of life, including washing clothes, cooking, and drinking. If the power goes out, you can start to boil water to use for cooking and washing. If you’re worried about your loved one’s health, consider contacting a doctor to prescribe the necessary medications.
