UPDATE: Tens of thousands are being evacuated as Typhoon Kalmaegi barrels toward the Philippines, with mandatory evacuation orders issued for more than 70,000 residents in vulnerable coastal areas. The typhoon, which is currently located approximately 146 miles east of Guiuan, is expected to make landfall later today, bringing with it dangerous conditions including torrential rains and storm surges potentially reaching 10 feet.
Philippine officials have prohibited fishermen from going to sea and are urging residents to seek shelter in stronger buildings as the storm approaches. Kalmaegi, also known locally as Tino, boasts maximum sustained winds of 74 mph and gusts up to 93 mph. It is forecasted to strengthen as it moves across the Philippine Sea before striking land.
Governor RV Evardone of Eastern Samar confirmed that evacuation orders were initiated starting Monday, with residents in Guiuan, Mercedes, and Salcedo directed to move to designated evacuation centers. This event comes as the region is still reeling from the aftermath of a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck on September 30, resulting in at least 79 deaths and the displacement of thousands.
As preparations ramp up, officials are reminding residents of the devastating impact Typhoon Haiyan had on the same area in November 2013, which resulted in over 7,300 people dead or missing. This history underscores the urgency of the current situation, prompting disaster response agencies, including the coast guard, to be on high alert.
Authorities are monitoring the storm closely as it is expected to move westward overnight and continue to affect central island provinces, including Cebu. Thousands of villagers from nearby island provinces are also being evacuated as safety measures.
The Philippines is accustomed to dealing with an average of 20 typhoons and storms annually, alongside frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity, making it one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations. As Typhoon Kalmaegi approaches, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and minimizing potential damage.
Residents are urged to stay updated through official channels for the latest developments and safety instructions as the situation evolves.
