After witnessing the aftermath caused by
the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol and in some areas in Cebu, people again
are getting their fingers crossed to the next threat that will cause a massive
destruction particularly in the parts of Eastern Visayas. This time nature said
it will be a supertyphoon in the name of Yolanda or Haiyan. Well, I really
don’t have any idea how destructive this typhoon will be until such time I was
able to see it with my own eyes how it destroyed tremendously the entire Eastern
Visayas and the Northern part of Cebu.
Two days prior to the landfall of Yolanda,
the whole nation prepared for its coming that even classes and those who have
work are already suspended. It was all throughout prepared when that day came,
at around 9:00 o’clock in the morning, the threatening ominous clouds showed
up, wind is starting to rage its fury causing the trees to sway and bend as
well as the rain pouring heavily till our place flooded. As announced, brownout
and water shortage occurred causing us to save as much as we could till next day
comes.
As the typhoon continuously savaged the
place we’re living, I realized that this one is different. As our house
combatted against the strong winds and the huge raindrops causing loudness
hitting roofs, I just remembered what I saw on a weather forecast. Truly, it was
a supertyphoon with a maximum category-five storm with gusts of up to
235 mph. Furthermore, It is said to pass through Northern Cebu Area to Eastern
Visayas. To think of how strong the wind this was that made the whole town
of Tacloban devastated as storm surge of about 4m flushed away all the
properties and establishments they have. The storm displayed some
characteristics of an annular tropical cyclone.
Although natural disasters are hard to
mitigate, all I can say is that preparations are necessary. I just can’t
imagine the havoc Yolanda had brought to the country especially for those people
who have lost a loved one. Casualties have increased its toll to the extent
that some are still missing. I was even horrified that throughout Tacloban
City, widespread looting took place in the days following Haiyan's passage
and in some instances, relief trucks were even attacked and had food stolen in
the city.
Many typhoons have tested our preparedness
but still, we are helpless. Many have also pledged to help the country but I
wonder where did it go or were the victims of this tragedy benefited to all of
those. I think there’s more to tell about this drastic scenario but what I’m
being concern is the security of the people and their health to safeguard from
illnesses and diseases. I know there are stronger than Yolanda so we should be
alert and equipped anytime. Having faith and strength to withstand all these
calamities are the key to keep us safe and hold on to whatever obstacles may
arrive for the future.
