
What to Do If You Receive Public Storm Warning Signal #1
The first thing you should do if you receive a public storm warning signal #1 is to prepare for what’s to come. You should know the levels of the PSWS, where the storm is expected to hit, and how long the warning will last. If you don’t understand these basics, here are some tips that can help you stay safe in a storm. The public storm warning signal number one is a signal that indicates that heavy rain and strong winds are approaching. You should evacuate any low-lying areas and stay indoors.
Tropical cyclone warning signal number 1
During times of typhoons, it’s essential to know your surroundings and plan your activities accordingly. The number one signal indicates that a tropical cyclone is about 800 km away, and is making substantial progress towards your location. The typhoon is expected to bring strong winds, and is dangerous to be near. It’s important to secure loose objects and return home as quickly as possible.
In the Philippines, the TCWS number indicates that gale-force winds will develop in the next 36 hours. Likewise, the warning signal number two is expected to be in effect for 48 hours, while the TCWS number three is expected to be issued at least a day ahead. Hence, it’s important to follow the guidelines for tropical cyclone warning signals. It’s advisable to stay home during tropical cyclones to ensure your safety and that of your crew.
Levels of the PSWS
Various levels of the public storm warning signal are used to assess the intensity of a typhoon. The first warning signal indicates that there are chances of rainfall and winds of up to 60 kph. At this level, evacuating low-lying areas becomes mandatory. Power outages and communication failures are also expected. Moreover, schools are automatically suspended. Hence, evacuating to a safe place should be completed early. Emergency response organizations should be prepared for the calamity.
Public Storm Warning Signal Numbers are assigned to different regions of a city or county to create awareness about upcoming weather disturbances. The number is assigned to specific areas based on a variety of factors and is sequentially upgraded and downgraded as the disturbance moves through the PAR. As the storm approaches, it can potentially cause light damage to both low and high-risk structures. To help prepare for such dangers, agencies should begin implementing storm preparedness measures.
Areas affected
When a tropical cyclone is approaching, metrological departments should send out public storm warning signals to alert the public. These warnings are upgraded or downgraded as the disturbance moves through the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). A public storm warning signal will tell people to prepare for the impending winds, heavy rains, and flooding. People living in areas affected by a public storm warning signal are encouraged to stay indoors, monitor local news reports for updates, and be ready to evacuate.
When a storm warning signal goes into effect, the associated meteorological conditions are expected to develop within 36 hours. This time frame is shorter with PSWS #2, PSWS #3, PSWS #4, and PSWS #5. The signal number remains in effect as the cyclone approaches, though the forecast changes. Fortunately, for the majority of areas affected by a PSWS, businesses can continue operating as usual.
Duration
A public storm warning signal is issued when heavy rainfall and gusty winds are predicted within a certain area. When this warning is issued, people in these areas should evacuate and secure loose outdoor items. It is wise to keep your cell phone on silent mode during a storm and prepare an emergency supply kit. In case you are stranded or you cannot evacuate your home, be prepared to leave as soon as the local authorities advise. If the storm threatens to bring damaging winds, stay away from riverbanks, beaches, and low-lying areas.
The duration of a public storm warning signal is based on the intensity of wind and rainfall. A storm warning signal is updated to a higher level of severity based on its location and path. The duration of the public storm warning signal is normally 36 hours, and it indicates the likelihood of a tropical cyclone’s impact. Winds are expected to reach thirty to sixty kilometers per hour. Power outages are expected due to downed trees. People can expect flying debris and limited damage to buildings. Driving can be dangerous during this time, so people should be vigilant and keep up with weather updates.
Precautions to be taken
A public storm warning signal number one means a tropical cyclone is approaching. In order to protect yourself and your property during this time, you should take appropriate precautions. If possible, you should secure any loose outdoor items and bring your pets indoors. Stay tuned to local television and radio stations for updates on the weather. Additionally, it is recommended to prepare for evacuation, especially if you live in low-lying areas. In order to prepare for the worst, you should learn how to interpret a public storm warning signal #1, so you can be prepared to take appropriate steps to protect yourself and your property.
If you are unsure of the weather in your area, you can consult the National Weather Service website for more information. This tool shows you the current warnings and a map of the area. Each warning is accompanied by a colour-coded bar, which identifies what type of warning is being issued. Clicking on the warning bar will direct you to the main page where you can review the latest information about a warning.
Changes in PSWS number
Various countries have strengthened their response to tropical cyclones through the use of Public Storm Warning Signals (PSWS). These systems have saved lives in the past and can help protect lives and property. Public Storm Warning Signals are the first level of storm warning. After the initial hoisting of PSWS, agencies begin preparing for a storm and are prepared to respond to a warning. The changes were made in response to Typhoons Haiyan and Yolanda.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently announced that Rai’s maximum sustained winds have increased to 120 kmph. These new levels are indicative of the growing intensity of the tropical cyclone, which continues to affect the Philippines. The Public Storm Warning Signal number can change depending on the intensity, size, and direction of the tropical cyclone. In the case of Odette, the signal number has increased as well.