Widespread flooding and landslides triggered by a tropical storm in the northeastern Philippines have led to the deaths of at least 23 individuals, with emergency services working tirelessly to rescue villagers stranded, some of whom have found refuge on their rooftops. The calamity unfolded on Thursday, urging authorities to seek motorboats to facilitate rescue operations in affected areas.
In light of the devastating conditions, the Philippine government has ordered the closure of schools and offices across the main island of Luzon for a second consecutive day, exempting only those crucial for disaster response. This directive aimed to safeguard the welfare of millions as Tropical Storm Trami made landfall in Isabela province shortly after midnight.
By dawn, the storm had shifted over Aguinaldo town in the mountainous Ifugao province, packing sustained winds of up to 95 kilometers per hour (59 mph) and gusts reaching 160 kilometers per hour (99 mph). The storm is projected to continue moving westward into the South China Sea by Thursday evening, according to national weather services.
The heavy rainfall associated with the storm has primarily impacted the Bicol region and neighboring Quezon province, where the majority of fatalities have occurred due to flooding. Reports indicate that at least 20 of the 23 deaths are from the severely affected Bicol region, including seven fatalities in Naga city, which experienced torrential rains that delivered over two months’ worth of rainfall in a single 24-hour period. Official reports attribute this devastation to the storm’s arrival coinciding with high tide.
Government forces have successfully rescued thousands of villagers trapped by rising waters; however, many others remain in perilous situations throughout the Bicol region, including individuals stranded atop roofs. Approximately 1,500 police officers have been mobilized to assist with disaster recovery efforts, as stated by local officials.
Due to the overwhelming number of stranded individuals, rescue operations are challenging, as highlighted by Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon. He expressed that additional motorboats are crucial for the ongoing efforts, emphasizing the need for delivering food and water supplies to those unable to evacuate immediately.
Areas within Naga city have seen flash floods that swept away vehicles, while mudflows from Mayon Volcano in the adjacent Albay province have also buried several cars. The adverse weather continues to complicate relief operations, with officials struggling to reach those in need.
The country’s disaster management agency reported that over 2 million people have been affected by the storm, with around 75,400 villagers displaced from their homes seeking refuge in safer areas. It is common for the Philippines to face approximately 20 storms and typhoons each year. A stark reminder of the potential devastation was Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, a catastrophic event that resulted in more than 7,300 deaths and extensive destruction of villages.