STRONG and big waves considered to be a "storm surge" have pounded on the seawall of Barangay Palaka in Valladolid town, Negros Occidental Thursday, July 22, 2021.
John Dexter Celiz, head of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO), said the over 20-foot-high and roaring waves hit the area around 10 a.m.
It lasted for about two hours, he said.
"When the wave is more than 20 feet, it is already considered a storm surge," Celiz told SunStar Bacolod, adding that it was mainly caused by the high tide.
Rains with strong winds brought about by Typhoon Fabian also triggered the strong and big waves, he added.
No injuries and casualties were reported. Also, there was no evacuation.
The LDRMMO, though, noted at least four food establishments beside the seawall with roofs slightly damaged by the strong waves.
The water also spilled over the seawall reaching the national highway, splashing some motorists and resident-bypassers.
Celiz said they will continue monitoring the waves in the area, urging nearby residents to be vigilant.
According to the Provincial Disaster Program Management Division, the rains experienced in the province are caused by thunderstorms.
Another factor is "Fabian" which intensifying the southwest monsoon, authorities said.