Tropical storm Trami has caused widespread devastation in the Philippines, leaving at least 14 people dead and thousands trapped in their homes as emergency services struggle to respond to rescue requests.
The storm, known locally as Kristine, brought torrential rains leading to severe flooding in eastern Philippines. As a result, public schools and offices on the island of Luzon were closed, except for those directly involved in disaster response.
Trami caused the death of 12 people in the central city of Naga, with additional casualties reported in other areas such as Masbate and Catanduanes provinces. Storm warnings were issued in over two dozen provinces, including the capital Manila, where heavy rainfall was expected despite not being directly in the storm’s path.
With sustained winds of 53mph and gusts up to 65mph, Trami was forecasted to bring up to eight inches of rainfall in some regions, raising concerns of landslides and further flooding. The storm was expected to make landfall along the Aurora coast and move across northern Luzon before heading into the South China Sea.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has cancelled all appointments to focus on coordinating search and rescue efforts, with thousands of villagers already displaced by the storm. Rescue operations were hindered by a lack of resources, prompting calls for national intervention to address the scale of the disaster.
In the province of Quezon, floodwaters reached up to 3m, forcing thousands to evacuate as authorities emphasised the urgent need for additional rescue personnel and equipment. Coast guard operations were ongoing to rescue people in flooded villages, while inter-island ferry services were suspended, leaving passengers and workers stranded at seaports.
The Philippines, a region prone to storms and natural disasters, faces a tough recovery as Trami continues to impact daily life across the country. The storm’s effects also extended to Malaysia, where the Meteorological Department issued advisories on heavy rainfall and strong winds in the region.
As the Philippines and Malaysia brace for the aftermath of this tropical storm, residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow updates from local authorities. The impact of Trami serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by these disaster-prone nations.
In summary, tropical storm Trami has caused significant damage in the Philippines, leading to loss of life, widespread flooding, and challenges in rescue operations. The government is working to coordinate relief efforts, but the lack of resources poses a significant obstacle in addressing the disaster’s scale. The impact of the storm also extends to Malaysia, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.