Torrential rains have triggered landslides and flooding in the southeastern Philippines, resulting in seven confirmed deaths and displacing over 3,000 villagers.
Storm Impacts and Displacement
The storm made landfall late Thursday in Surigao del Sur province and subsequently moved west across the central islands. As of Friday noon, the storm sustained winds of up to 55 kph with gusts reaching 70 kph.
Nearly 10,000 people have been affected by the recent downpours, with more than 3,200 seeking refuge in emergency shelters or with relatives.
Transport Disruptions
The storm has caused widespread disruption to transportation. The Philippine Coast Guard reported nearly 5,000 passengers and cargo workers stranded at 94 seaports due to the suspension of inter-island ferry and cargo services. Dozens of domestic flights have also been cancelled, leaving thousands of travellers stranded at airports.
Unusual Timing
These rains and thunderstorms arrived ahead of the typical typhoon season, which usually begins in June. Weather officials attribute the unusual weather pattern to the interaction of cold winds with warm, moist air from the Pacific.
What’s Next?
Forecasters anticipate the storm will weaken into a tropical depression as it moves northwest across the central islands later Friday. However, heavy rainfall could continue, potentially posing ongoing flood risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the storm make landfall?
The storm made landfall late Thursday in Surigao del Sur province.
How many people have been affected?
Nearly 10,000 people have been affected by the downpours in recent days.
What caused the storm?
The rains and thunderstorms were caused by cold winds interacting with warm, moist air from the Pacific.
As the storm moves northwest, will the affected areas face continued challenges beyond the immediate impacts of the winds and landslides?
