For the fourth time in a month, the Philippines has been hit by a tropical cyclone. Thousands had to flee on Monday as Typhoon Toraji hit the island state near the city of Dilasag, about 220 kilometers northeast of the capital Manila, according to the weather service.
The weather service warned of strong winds, heavy rain and a threatening storm surge in the north of the country. “Trees are falling and the power has been out since yesterday,” reported the head of civil defense in the town of Dinalungan, not far from Dilasag.
About 7,000 people were brought to safety from the coast and from flood- and landslide-prone areas in Aurora and Isabela provinces, rescuers said. Aurora and Isabela were the first to be hit by the typhoon. “Toraji” then moved further into the mountainous interior of the Philippine main island of Luzon.
2500 villages evacuated
The government had ordered the evacuation of 2,500 villages as a precaution. Authorities said fallen trees and power poles blocked several major roads. Schools and authorities were also closed in hard-hit areas.
Tropical storms ‘Trami’, ‘Kong-rey’ and ‘Yinxing’ have hit the Philippines over the past four weeks. As a result, a total of 159 people were killed and there was enormous destruction.
Climate change worsens the situation
After “Toraji”, the next tropical depression could reach the region as early as Thursday, meteorologist Veronica Torres told the AFP news agency. Tropical Storm “Man-yi,” currently located east of Guam in the Pacific Ocean, could follow suit next week.
Storms are common in the region at this time of year. Climate change is causing them to form closer to the coast, grow in strength faster and stay above land longer.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
