Lagatar24 Desk
Manila: A powerful Typhoon Kalmegi struck the Philippines with wind speeds of up to 200 km/h, leaving a trail of devastation across the central provinces. At least 241 people have been confirmed dead, with hundreds more missing and thousands rendered homeless. The island province of Cebu has been identified as the worst-hit region, suffering catastrophic flooding and infrastructure damage.
President Declares National Emergency
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of emergency on Thursday, November 6, following a meeting with disaster response officials. The declaration will allow the government to release emergency funds, curb hoarding, and prevent price gouging of essential supplies. Most fatalities were reported due to sudden flash floods and drowning caused by the typhoon’s massive storm surges.
Severe Flooding and Widespread Destruction
According to the national weather agency, Typhoon Kalmegi slammed into the country’s eastern coast with sustained winds of 200 km/h, triggering giant waves and submerging low-lying coastal communities. Communication and power lines in Cebu province were completely destroyed, leaving several villages isolated. Reports suggest that many residents are still trapped on rooftops awaiting rescue.
Millions Affected Across the Archipelago
Authorities estimate that nearly two million people have been affected nationwide, with 560,000 rural residents displaced and around 450,000 currently sheltered in emergency camps. The tropical cyclone has now moved toward the South China Sea after battering the Philippine islands. Rescue teams are continuing operations amid heavy rains and blocked roads, as the government intensifies relief distribution in the hardest-hit zones.
