October 24, 2024 – Tropical Storm Trami has left a trail of destruction across the Philippines, causing severe flooding, landslides, and widespread power outages. At least 26 people have been confirmed dead as rescue teams race to reach isolated communities affected by the storm.
Heavy rains triggered flash floods in low-lying areas, forcing thousands to evacuate from their homes. In mountainous regions, landslides buried houses and blocked key roads, hampering rescue and relief efforts. Authorities reported that many victims were caught in sudden floods, with some swept away by fast-moving waters.
The provinces of Cagayan and Isabela in northern Luzon have been among the hardest hit, with rivers overflowing and inundating farmlands. Local officials warned that more fatalities could emerge as rescue teams assess remote areas still cut off due to flooding and debris.
Electricity and communication services have been disrupted across several provinces, with government agencies scrambling to restore power and provide emergency aid to displaced families. Schools have been closed, and the national weather bureau has issued warnings for further heavy rains.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the deployment of additional resources, including military personnel, to assist in rescue operations. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of our people and provide immediate relief to those affected,” he said in a statement.
The Philippines, situated in the Pacific typhoon belt, experiences frequent tropical storms and typhoons, but the intensity of Trami underscores the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
Government agencies and aid organizations have called on citizens to remain vigilant, urging those in high-risk areas to follow evacuation orders as the storm continues to move across the archipelago. The weather bureau forecasts that the storm will exit the country’s territory in the coming days, though residual rainfall may still pose risks.
Further updates on casualties and damages are expected as assessments continue in affected regions.