Power plants in Batanes shut down ahead of Leon

Residents in Itbayat town, Batanes have tied down their ropes as seen in this photo taken on Tuesday (Oct. 29) in anticipation of the impact of Super Typhoon “Leon” (international name: Kong-rey). (Photo by Nathan Alcantara)

ITBAYAT, BATANES — The Basco and Itbayat Diesel Power Plants (DPP) have implemented a total plant shutdown as a precaution for the approaching Super Typhoon “Leon” (international name: Kong-rey) on Wednesday (Oct. 30).

According to the Basco DPP’s advisory, the move was to ensure the safety of its equipment and electrical facilities at the switchyard and plant.

It said it was necessary to temporarily disconnect and secure its facilities to minimize the risk of extensive damage that could prolong the power restoration period after the typhoon.

READ: LIVE UPDATES: Super Typhoon Leon

The power plant covers the entire Batan Island, one of the major and largest islands in this northernmost province. It is composed of the towns of Basco, Mahatao, Ivana and Uyugan.

Basco DPP said power will be restored only once it is safe for its consumers.

“We advise everyone to prepare and stay safe as the typhoon approaches,” it said.

The Itbayat DPP was also shut down on Tuesday evening as a preventive measure.

Leon’s eye was last located 360 kilometers east of Calayan, Cagayan, carrying maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts reaching up to 230 kph, moving west-northwestward at 10 kph. INQ