To simplify the system of informing the people regarding the rainfall warning, PAGASA has now been using color codes. But, not all the constituents understand the warning system. Thus, this post will help people understand the meaning of the color codes in the PAGASA Rainfall Warning System.
Way back in 2012, PAGASA has been using the Green-Yellow-Red color to visualize the amount of rainfall based from the meteorological maps of PAGASA. Green represents nature and calmness. In traffic signals, it means “GO”. When PAGASA issued the “Green Warning”, this means that the warning of the rainfall is middle level.
The color coding makes the job of the meteorologists and weathermen a lot easier, yet not all Filipino understand it.
New PAGASA Rainfall Warning System
Recently, PAGASA in collaboration with the DOST or the Department of Science and Technology announced that the “Green” warning signal will be replaced with “Orange”. The new color codes of the rainfall warning signals are as follows:
- Yellow – MONITOR the weather conditions
- Orange – ALERT for potential danger and pre-emptive evacuation
- Red – High risk of danger needs to EVACUATE
When PAGASA issues YELLOW rainfall warning signal, it means that there is a prevailing heavy rain that measures 7.5 to 15 mm. People are warned to be vigilant and monitor the weather conditions. Likewise, the community must also observe the weather updates.
The YELLOW warning specifies heavy rains and the possibility of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. Although it’s not yet an emergency situation, people must be alert and keep an eye on the possible changes in the weather conditions.
On the other hand, the “ORANGE” signal tells that the rain is intense in the past hour and the rainfall measures 15 to 30 mm. The rain is expected to be persistent in the next couple of hours. In this warning signal, flooding should be expected and the constituents should prepare for possible evacuation. Thus, people living in low-lying areas and near the seashores are advised to leave their place when PAGASA issues the ORANGE warning signal.
The last rainfall warning signal is the “RED” color code. This means the occurrence of torrential rains that may cause serious and dangerous flooding. In this signal, the rainfall has reached the critical level that is above 30 mm in the past hours and may be persistent in the following hours. If the signal is raised to RED, evacuation is executed for the safety of the people.
Be informed and vigilant for your safety!
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