At least 26 people have been killed, and over 150,000 residents forced to evacuate as Tropical Storm Trami, known locally as Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, battered the northeastern coast of the Philippines on Thursday. Heavy rainfall and strong winds caused extensive flooding and landslides across the main island of Luzon, with the Bicol region being one of the hardest-hit areas.
Trami, which made landfall in the town of Divilacan in Isabela province, brought maximum sustained winds of 95 kph (59 mph) as it moved westward across the mountainous northern Cordillera region, according to the Philippine state weather agency. Authorities warned residents in affected provinces of severe rainfall, storm surges, landslides, and further flooding.
The Philippine Coast Guard has been actively rescuing residents in inundated areas like Bicol, where floodwaters rose to the roofs of single-story homes. The National Civil Defense Office reported that over 163,000 people have sought refuge in evacuation centers, primarily in Bicol. Tragically, Naga City alone reported 14 deaths on Thursday, mostly due to drowning and landslides.
The government has ordered the temporary closure of schools and businesses along Trami’s projected path, and at least a dozen flights across the country have been canceled. Additionally, the central bank suspended foreign exchange trading and monetary operations for a second consecutive day.
The Philippines endures an average of 20 tropical storms annually, often accompanied by severe rains, powerful winds, and devastating landslides, leaving a trail of destruction and hardship for affected communities.
