DOST: Expect two more cyclones before June ends

After "Chedeng" and "Dodong," at least "one to two' more cyclones may lash the Philippines before the end of June, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said Monday. DOST Undersecretary Graciano Yumul Jr. said their models do not show any cyclone entering Philippine territory this week but June usually brings three to four cyclones. "Historically ang Hunyo nakakakita tayo tatlo o apat na pagbagyo. Nakadalawa na tayo, 'Chedeng' at 'Dodong' kaya inaashan natin may dalawa pang papasok," Yumul said in an interview on dwIZ radio. He said they will keep watching for low-pressure areas and other weather disturbances that may approach or develop within the Philippines. However, he said there is no sign of any cyclone entering the Philippines from the west or east, at least in the next few days. Yumul said they are particularly monitoring the Philippine Sea to the east, and the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) to the west. "Chedeng" (Songda) lashed the Philippines in late May, leaving at least four dead and affecting 91,767 families or 446,907 people, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). On the other hand, the NDRRMC said "Dodong" (Sarika) left at least two dead and 13 missing, and affected 325 families or 1,151 people as of Sunday. - VVP, GMA News