Over a million residents have been evacuated from their homes in the Philippines as a powerful typhoon approaches the archipelago. The storm, which has intensified into a super typhoon, is expected to bring destructive winds and torrential rains upon making landfall.
Authorities have confirmed at least two fatalities linked to the approaching weather system. Reports indicate one individual drowned amid rising floodwaters, while a second victim, a 64-year-old woman, was killed when her home collapsed. According to local responders, the woman had been in the process of evacuating but may have returned to retrieve belongings.
The typhoon is forecast to strike the eastern coast with sustained winds reaching 185 km/h and even stronger gusts. The main island of Luzon, including the capital region, is bracing for significant impact. In preparation, schools and government offices have been ordered closed, and nearly 300 flights have been cancelled.
Government officials are urging citizens in the storm’s direct path to adhere to mandatory evacuation orders, emphasizing that failure to do so is both dangerous and illegal. The plea aims to prevent last-minute, high-risk rescue operations that could endanger emergency personnel.
The storm arrives just days after another severe weather system caused widespread devastation and loss of life in the region, further straining national disaster response resources. Coastal communities are already experiencing the storm’s fury, with videos showing powerful waves overtopping seawalls and residential streets submerged under floodwater.
Meteorologists warn the system could deposit over 200mm of rain across many areas, raising serious flood and landslide concerns. This marks the 21st major storm to impact the country this year.
