Tropical Storm Maymay Disrupts Mountain Roads in Cordillera

Several mountain roads across the Cordillera region remained closed or under restricted access on Thursday due to the passage of Tropical Storm Maymay over Northern Luzon. The storm made landfall over Magsingal, Ilocos Sur at 2 a.m. As of 4 a.m. Thursday, Maymay was located in the vicinity of San Juan, Ilocos Sur, packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (approximately 35 knots). This weather condition has significantly impacted the transportation network in the Cordillera region. The Cordillera region, a mountainous area in Northern Philippines, is prone to disruptions from weather phenomena due to its rugged terrain. Road closures due to landslides and flooding are common during the approach or passage of tropical storms and typhoons, causing severe delays in the daily lives and logistics of local communities. The roads affected by Maymay are likely to include vital routes for inter-regional travel and the transport of goods. This could potentially affect the supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential items, with greater impact expected in isolated mountain communities. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) continues to monitor Maymay's track and intensity, urging vigilance in affected areas. Road clearing and repair operations are expected to commence as soon as weather conditions improve and safety is confirmed, though full restoration may take time.