Tropical storm leaves 8 dead, thousands displaced in Philippines
A tropical storm has triggered widespread flooding and a landslide in the southern Philippines, resulting in at least eight confirmed deaths and displacing over 28,000 people. Residents in two villages remain trapped as rescue efforts continue, according to officials.
Storm’s Impact and Current Status
Tropical Storm Penha, which locally is known as Basyang, made landfall in the southeastern province of Surigao del Sur late Thursday. As of Friday night, the storm had weakened to a tropical depression and was tracked off the central province of Cebu. It currently carries sustained winds of up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) per hour and gusts reaching 75 kph (47 mph).
Landslides and Drowning
A landslide, caused by torrential rains, struck a quarry area in Cagayan de Oro city Thursday night, claiming the lives of a couple and their two children. Three individuals drowned in floodwaters in Iligan city, and another villager drowned in Carmen town, Agusan del Norte province.
Rescue Operations Underway
In Iligan city, located more than 80 kilometers (48 miles) southwest of Cagayan de Oro, a resident contacted DZMM radio Friday morning, pleading for rescue as floodwaters surrounded her home, trapping her family and three other families. Office of Civil defence regional director Antonio Sugarol responded, assuring the resident that rescuers were en route and that other families in the villages of Mahayahay and Tubod were also being assisted.
More than 28,000 villagers have been displaced by the storm, with the majority seeking shelter in emergency centers across southern and central provinces. Classes have been suspended in numerous areas, the Office of Civil defence reported.
Travel Disruptions
The Philippine Coast Guard stated that over 7,400 passengers and cargo workers are stranded at 78 seaports. Interisland passenger ferries and cargo ships have been temporarily prohibited from sailing due to the rough seas.
What Might Happen Next
As Tropical Storm Penha continues to move northwestward across central island provinces, We see forecast to weaken further. However, continued rainfall could exacerbate flooding in already affected areas. Further disruptions to travel are likely as long as sea conditions remain hazardous. Rescue operations will continue for several days as authorities assess the full extent of the damage and reach isolated communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the deaths reported?
A couple and two children died when a landslide hit their shanty in Cagayan de Oro city. Three others drowned in Iligan city, and one villager drowned in Carmen town, Agusan del Norte province.
How many people have been displaced?
More than 28,000 villagers have been displaced due to the storm and are currently in emergency shelters.
What is the current status of the storm?
As of Friday night, Tropical Storm Penha had weakened into a tropical depression and was tracked off the central province of Cebu with sustained winds of up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) per hour and gusts of up to 75 kph (47 mph).
Given the Philippines’ susceptibility to both storms and other natural disasters, what steps do you think are most crucial for building resilience in vulnerable communities?