By : Lloyd Mahachi

A devastating trail of destruction and loss of life has been left in the wake of Tropical Storm Trami, which triggered massive floods and landslides in the Philippines. The country’s disaster-response agency has confirmed that at least 120 people have lost their lives, with dozens still missing and feared dead.

President Ferdinand Marcos has attributed the devastation to an unusually large volume of rainfall, with some areas receiving up to two months’ worth in just 24 hours. This overwhelming deluge has crippled flood controls, leaving communities vulnerable to the storm’s fury. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency responders working tirelessly to reach affected areas.

The scale of the disaster is staggering, with over 4.2 million people affected and nearly half a million seeking shelter in emergency centers. The government has mobilized a massive relief effort, deploying troops, rescue teams, and medical personnel to assist in the rescue and recovery operations.

Concerns are rising that the storm may make a U-turn next week, prompting an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss contingency plans. The Philippines is prone to storms, with around 20 hitting the country annually, but the severity of Tropical Storm Trami has caught many off guard. This comes after the devastating Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, which claimed over 7,300 lives and left entire villages flattened.

The storm is now heading towards Vietnam, prompting warnings of flash flooding and landslides. Rescuers continue their search for bodies, with efforts focused on affected provinces like Batangas. The Philippine Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations are providing critical aid, including food, shelter, and medical care.

As the country struggles to come to terms with the scale of the disaster, President Marcos has vowed to provide support to affected communities. The international community is also rallying behind the Philippines, offering condolences and assistance.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi