Manila: Tropical Storm Trami made landfall in the northeastern region of the Philippines’ main Luzon island early Thursday, prompting the closure of schools and government offices for a second consecutive day as disaster agencies prepare for anticipated heavy rains and floods.
With maximum sustained winds reaching 95 kph (59 mph) and gusts of up to 160 kph, Trami is moving westward across Isabela province toward the South China Sea, according to the state weather agency’s 8 a.m. (0000 GMT) bulletin. The agency has issued warnings for heavy to intense rainfall, potential flooding, landslides, and storm surges affecting several northern provinces.
Locally known as Kristine, the storm has tragically claimed at least 14 lives, including 12 individuals in central Naga City, officials reported on Wednesday. As floodwaters have risen to roof height in some areas, thousands of residents in the central Bicol region have been forced to evacuate their homes.
In response to the storm’s impact, the central bank has cancelled foreign exchange trading and monetary operations to focus resources on emergency measures.
The Philippines typically experiences an average of 20 tropical storms each year, leading to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and deadly landslides.
