At least 76 killed as Tropical Storm Trami batters the Philippines
Nearly 320,000 people forced to leave their homes due to flooding and landslides, while thousands are stranded at air and seaports.
Tropical Storm Trami Kills 76 in the Philippines, Leaves Thousands Displaced
At least 76 people have lost their lives across central and northern Philippines after Tropical Storm Trami triggered devastating landslides and floods. The storm, which forced nearly 320,000 residents to flee their homes, also left many trapped on rooftops as rising waters surged through communities.
Although the storm has now exited the country, state forecasters warned on Friday that it could potentially make a U-turn next week. This unusual scenario may occur if high-pressure winds developing in the South China Sea push the storm back towards the Philippines.
Landslides and Missing Residents in Batangas
In Batangas province, south of Manila, 47 fatalities were reported, most of whom died in landslides caused by the heavy rains. Provincial police chief Colonel Jacinto Malinao Jr told ABS-CBN News from Talisay town that 17 residents are still missing. Several victims were found buried under a deep layer of mud, boulders, and fallen trees.
Despite not strengthening into a typhoon, Trami brought unprecedented rainfall, with some areas receiving one to two months' worth of rain within just 24 hours. Flash floods overwhelmed communities, impacting more than 2.6 million people, according to disaster officials. Many of the displaced sought refuge in evacuation centers or stayed with relatives.
Disruptions to Travel and Lives
As of Friday, over 7,500 passengers remained stranded at ports, and 36 flights were cancelled due to the storm.
In the Bicol region, 29 deaths were reported, with many caused by floodwaters and landslides. The Philippine National Police confirmed that at least 11 people drowned, with nine others injured and four still missing.
Near the Mayon Volcano in Albay province, mudflows made up of volcanic debris engulfed houses and vehicles, adding to the destruction.
Trami Heads Towards Vietnam
By Friday afternoon, the storm was located about 410 km (255 miles) west of the northwestern Philippines, with sustained winds reaching 95 km/h (59 mph) and gusts of up to 115 km/h (78 mph). It was moving northwest toward Vietnam.
Storms: A Frequent Threat to the Philippines
Each year, the Philippines, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea, faces an average of 20 storms and typhoons. Just last month, Tropical Storm Yagi claimed 11 lives, underscoring the nation’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
