A tornado struck the coastal village of Caaoacan in this city on Wednesday morning, damaging four houses and an animal shelter. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident.
Dr. Melvin Manuel, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, stated, “We immediately proceeded to the area to ensure the safety of residents.” He emphasized the importance of coordination with various local agencies, including the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative, the City Engineering Office, and the City Social Welfare and Development Office, to gather data and consolidate a report for immediate action.
Ponciana Andres, one of the affected residents, recounted her experience, saying she was watching television when she heard a roaring wind above her house. Shortly after, their roof was blown off, and nearby trees were uprooted. “The incident happened so fast,” she said in a radio interview. “Everything was a mess.” Andres noted that it was her first experience with a tornado of such intensity.
In response to the disaster, the city government has pledged immediate assistance to the affected families. “After consolidating our report at the city government, we hope to extend assistance within the day,” Manuel added.
Wednesday’s tornado marks the third to hit Ilocos Norte in just five days, following incidents in Paoay on Saturday and Pasuquin on Monday. Both previous tornadoes also caused damage to houses but, fortunately, resulted in no casualties.