Manila: Tropical Storm Trami, known locally as Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, has wreaked havoc across the Philippines, resulting in at least 26 fatalities and displacing over 150,000 individuals as it made landfall on the northeastern coast.
The storm struck the main island of Luzon, unleashing heavy to torrential rainfall that triggered widespread flooding and landslides. With maximum sustained winds reaching 95 kph (59 mph), Trami is advancing westward across the mountainous northern region of Cordillera, heading towards the South China Sea, according to the latest bulletin from the state weather agency.
Authorities warn of continued heavy to intense rainfall, which poses threats of flooding, landslides, and storm surges in several northern provinces. Tragically, most of the storm-related fatalities have occurred in the Central Bicol region, particularly in Naga City, where 14 deaths were reported on Thursday alone. These deaths were primarily caused by drowning and landslides.
Trami made its initial landfall in the northeastern town of Divilacan, located in Isabela province. Local disaster chief Ezikiel Chavez confirmed that no fatalities have been reported from that area.
In preparation for the storm, the government ordered the closure of businesses and schools in affected regions, anticipating heavy rains and potential flooding. The Civil Defence Office reported that over 163,000 people are currently seeking refuge in evacuation centres, with the majority located in Bicol.
The impact of Trami has also extended to air travel, with at least a dozen flights cancelled across the country due to adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the central bank has suspended foreign exchange trading and monetary operations for the second consecutive day as a precautionary measure.
The Philippines is no stranger to tropical storms, typically experiencing an average of 20 annually, often leading to heavy rains, strong winds, and fatal landslides.
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