Vietnam is currently facing the impact of one of the most powerful tropical storms in Asia this year, as Typhoon Kalmaegi has struck the country with winds reaching 148kph. This typhoon had devastating consequences in the Philippines, resulting in the loss of 114 lives and leaving 127 individuals missing.
The aftermath of Typhoon Kalmaegi in the Philippines led to extensive destruction, with floodwaters submerging roads, homes being flattened by strong winds, and streets covered in debris. Mely Saberon, a resident of Talisay in the province of Cebu, described the severe damage caused by the typhoon in their area.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr of the Philippines declared a state of emergency to facilitate the quick allocation of emergency funds, prevent food hoarding, and curb overpricing. Kalmaegi marked the 20th tropical storm to hit the Philippines this year, and despite not being the strongest, its slow movement made it exceptionally deadly.
The typhoon dumped a significant amount of water on densely populated regions of the Philippines, particularly in Cebu province, leading to numerous drowning incidents. In Cebu, the rugged terrain directed water directly into communities lacking adequate drainage, catching residents and responders off-guard.
The City Disaster Council in Cebu officially declared a “state of calamity” due to the severe conditions caused by the typhoon, with many roads blocked by landslides, flooding, and debris. Over 400,000 people have been displaced in Cebu, a city with a population of 2.5 million.
Typhoon Kalmaegi has now reached central Vietnam, where residents in Dak Lak province have reported collapsed and flooded homes. Approximately 260,000 soldiers in Vietnam are prepared to assist with storm relief efforts. The hurricane is anticipated to make landfall in eastern Thailand on Friday morning.
