Manila: The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has identified areas across the country as susceptible to rain-induced landslides and flooding, as Tropical Storm Maymay (international name Kujira) intensified and threatened to bring heavy rains in the coming days.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a social media post Wednesday, the MGB identified 8,891 barangays nationwide, urging affected residents to remain on alert. Of the total number of barangays identified, the MGB said Region 1 (Ilocos Region) has the highest number of susceptible barangays with 3,104, followed by Region 3 (Central Luzon) with 2,154 and the National Capital Region (NCR) with 1,403.

The assessment also includes the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with 1,005 barangays, Region 2 with 486, Calabarzon with 473, Mimaropa with 145, and Region 6 or Western Visayas with 121. 'Based on the latest DOST-PAGASA (Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) 72-hour rainfall forecast, residents in listed areas and those nearby or downstream are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions,' the MGB post read.

The bureau stated that the assessment risk is valid from Aug. 5 to 8, 8 a.m., warning that residents living in the identified barangays, as well as those in nearby and downstream communities, should closely monitor weather updates and prepare for possible flooding and landslides. It also urged the public to continue monitoring official advisories, particularly as weather conditions associated with TS Maymay evolve.

In its Tropical Cyclone bulletin issued at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, PAGASA reported that TS Maymay slightly intensified as it moved slowly and erratically over the sea west of Ilocos Sur, with maximum sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts of up to 90 kph. It is expected to make landfall over Ilocos Sur or La Union by Wednesday evening or early Thursday, before crossing northern and central Luzon, and is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression by Thursday morning.

Residents are encouraged to check the complete list of barangays identified as susceptible to rain-induced landslides and flooding through the MGB website and social media pages.