Manila: The Philippines has suspended government work and closed schools as Tropical Storm Trami approaches the eastern coast. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered responders to prepare for the impending landfall on Wednesday.
According to state weather forecaster Pag-asa, Trami’s center was last recorded at 200 km (124 miles) off the eastern town of Casiguran in Aurora province. The storm is expected to make landfall between Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning.
Marcos emphasized the need for vigilance, directing government agencies to monitor rainfall volumes, preposition resources, and anticipate the needs of affected populations. “The worst is yet to come, I’m afraid. Let’s all prepare,” he stated during a situation briefing. “The volumes of water are unprecedented. We should closely monitor that.”
Ahead of landfall, Trami brought heavy rainfall to the central region of Bicol on Tuesday, prompting residents to evacuate as floodwaters rose to roof levels in some areas. Rivers overflowed, leading to flash floods, according to disaster officials. Albay provincial disaster chief Cedric Daep reported, “We got almost two months’ worth of rainfall in just 24 hours.”
Tragically, the civil defense office confirmed one fatality in Palanas town, Masbate province, where a falling branch struck a resident. Five others were injured, and seven individuals are reported missing.
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Pag-asa has issued warnings of strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges in coastal towns within the storm’s trajectory. With winds reaching 85 kph (53 mph), the storm has prompted widespread disruptions, including the closure of schools and government operations across Luzon.
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Additionally, the Philippine central bank announced the suspension of currency trading and monetary operations for the day, though stock market trading continued as usual. Agencies responsible for disaster response and essential services remained operational, as confirmed by the presidential office.
