Tropical Storm Trami has caused widespread devastation in the Philippines, with the death toll rising to nearly 130 as of the latest reports. The storm triggered massive flooding and landslides, leaving at least 85 people dead and 41 others missing. The government's disaster-response agency has labeled Trami as one of the deadliest and most destructive storms to hit the Southeast Asian archipelago this year.
Rescue efforts are ongoing in affected areas, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to locate and assist those in need. In the town of Talisay, Batangas province, authorities recovered the remains of a missing villager, bringing closure to a grieving father awaiting news of his 14-year-old daughter.
President Ferdinand Marcos expressed concern over the unprecedented volume of rainfall brought by Trami, which overwhelmed flood controls in several provinces. He emphasized the need for improved flood control measures to address the growing threats posed by climate change.
More than 5 million people were in the storm's path, prompting mass evacuations to emergency shelters. Schools and government offices were closed, and inter-island ferry services were suspended to ensure public safety.
While the weather has cleared in many areas, the government remains vigilant as forecasts suggest Trami could make a U-turn and head back towards the Philippines. Efforts are also underway to prepare for potential impacts on Vietnam.
The Philippines, located in a region prone to tropical storms and typhoons, has faced numerous natural disasters in the past. The memory of Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, which claimed thousands of lives and devastated entire communities, serves as a stark reminder of the country's vulnerability to extreme weather events.
