LA UNION, Philippines — Amid the severe weather conditions brought on by the southwest monsoon, intensified by Super Typhoon Carina, two individuals from La Union have been reported missing. The local Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has been conducting search and rescue operations since the disappearance was reported on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the missing persons are a 64-year-old male from Barangay Halog East and a 48-year-old female from Barangay Urayong in Bauang town. The male was reportedly swept away by a strong water current while crossing a river, and the female is suspected to have drowned. La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David has urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid high-risk areas such as beaches and riversides. "We are prepared to assist in emergencies and urge everyone to take extra precautionary measures during this challenging time," she stated.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the PDRRMO had evacuated 81 families, or 216 individuals, across several towns including Bangar, Agoo, Bauang, Caba, Naguilian, and San Fernando City. An additional 104 families, or 333 individuals, are staying with family or relatives outside of formal evacuation centers. The weather has also caused partial to total damage to seven houses and led to power outages in 12 villages within the region.
Super Typhoon Carina was located approximately 380 kilometers north of Itbayat, Batanes as of the latest update from the state weather bureau at 5 p.m.