Typhoon Hagupit, or Ruby, has already been downgraded to a tropical storm, according to Rappler, but it does not necessarily mean that we can now rejoice and dance the night away: More rain is expected to arrive, and storm signal #3 is still up over some parts of the central Philippines.
Remember, a storm signal is all about the winds, and not the rainfall. Weak winds do not necessarily mean we will be spared by potential torrential downpours.
The Visayas region has already been hit hard, but here in the Metro, life is slowly grinding down in preparation for tonight: It is expected that we will experience the worst of the storm from 20:00 to 22:00 tonight (13:00 to 15:00 UTC). Companies have suspended work in the afternoon, schools have not opened at all… the café I’m staying in is closing for the day now.
Stay safe, everyone. Stay at home or somewhere sound, and don’t go out unless absolutely necessary. Have these things ready, and stock up on food and clean water!
And most importantly, pray.
Aloy Chua 