Storm Trami Hits Philippines: Seven Dead and Thousands Evacuated

Tropical Storm Trami has wreaked havoc in the northern Philippines, leading to the evacuation of at least 32,000 residents and resulting in seven fatalities. The storm is expected to make landfall near Divilacan on Luzon island, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kph (53 mph). As the storm progresses, torrential rains have caused severe flooding, submerging entire villages and complicating rescue operations in the Bicol region, approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Manila. Authorities have reported that half of the villages in Naga city are underwater, and rescue teams are struggling to reach affected areas due to the strength of the floodwaters. President Ferdinand Marcos expressed concern over the situation, stating, 'The worst is yet to come.' Evacuation centers have been established for displaced families, with around 2,500 locations prepared to provide shelter. The Philippines is no stranger to such storms, regularly facing typhoons that lead to significant destruction and loss of life.