A severe tropical storm, known as Tropical Storm Trami, has left a trail of destruction across the Philippines, claiming the lives of at least 24 people, according to local authorities on Thursday.
The storm, referred to locally as Tropical Cyclone Kristine, triggered widespread flooding and landslides that have displaced over 150,000 residents on the country’s main island, Luzon.
Landfall in Luzon: Floods and Landslides Cause Devastation
Tropical Storm Trami made landfall near the town of Divilacan in Isabela province, located in the northeast of the Philippines. As the storm approached, schools and businesses in its path were ordered to close, bracing for the worst. The national weather service reported that the storm’s eye passed over the mountainous interior of northern Luzon early Thursday morning, with sustained winds reaching speeds of 95 kilometers (59 miles) per hour.
The central Bicol region, southeast of the capital, Manila, has been hit hardest. Floods and landslides in this region, including in the city of Naga, have accounted for the majority of casualties. Regional police chief Brigadier-General Andre Dizon confirmed that 20 people have died across the Bicol region, though authorities are still working to finalize the total death toll.
Rescue Efforts Underway as Villages Remain Submerged
Thousands of people remain trapped in their flooded homes as rescue operations are underway. The Philippine Coast Guard, military personnel, and local authorities have mobilized to assist those affected by the disaster. Around 1,500 police officers have also been deployed to support disaster relief efforts.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has led a preemptive evacuation in Sitio Pandan, Barangay Claudio Salgado, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro yesterday, 23 October 2024.
✍️https://t.co/Sc0XnSLFdq#DOTrPH 🇵🇭#CoastGuardPH#MaritimeSectorWorks pic.twitter.com/4mrEeYLQnF
— Philippine Coast Guard (@coastguardph) October 24, 2024
According to Brigadier-General Dizon, many villagers were found stranded on rooftops as floodwaters surged through their communities. “We can’t rescue them all at once because there are so many, and we need additional motorboats,” he explained.
While some families have been rescued, many more are still awaiting help. Authorities are focusing on delivering essential supplies such as food and water to those who remain trapped and unable to evacuate immediately.
Warnings of Further Risk as Heavy Rains Continue
The national weather service has issued further warnings for regions in northern Luzon, alerting residents to the risks of heavy rain, potential landslides, and storm surges. These hazardous conditions are expected to persist as Tropical Storm Trami continues its path across the region.
On average, the Philippines experiences about 20 tropical storms each year, often bringing with them heavy rainfall, strong winds, and deadly landslides. The damage caused by these storms can be severe, displacing thousands of people and leaving a lasting impact on affected communities.
