Tropical Storm Trami Causes Widespread Flooding and Landslides in the Philippines, Leaving 24 Dead

MANILA, Philippines: At least 24 people have been killed by widespread flooding and landslides triggered by Tropical Storm Trami in the northeastern Philippines. The storm made landfall in Isabela province early Thursday, bringing heavy rains that submerged villages, swept away cars, and forced authorities to carry out large-scale rescue operations.

In the hard-hit Bicol region, southeast of Manila, 21 people drowned, with Naga City experiencing severe flash floods. The storm dumped over two months’ worth of rainfall in just 24 hours, leaving thousands trapped, some stranded on rooftops. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the lack of motorboats is hampering the evacuation process, according to regional police chief Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon.

The storm, with winds of up to 95 kph and gusts of 115 kph, is now moving away from the Philippines toward the South China Sea. More than 2 million people have been affected, with over 75,000 displaced and over 1,000 homes damaged. Relief efforts are being hampered by continued stormy weather and blocked roads, as authorities work to deliver essential supplies to affected areas.

The storm is the latest in a series of powerful weather events to hit the Philippines, a country that faces around 20 typhoons each year.