Tens of Thousands Evacuate as Typhoon Kalmaegi Approaches Philippines

As Typhoon Kalmaegi approaches the eastern Philippines, officials have ordered the evacuation of over 70,000 residents from vulnerable coastal areas. The storm, which is expected to bring torrential rains and potentially deadly storm surges, is projected to make landfall later today.

Philippine authorities, responding to the imminent threat, issued mandatory evacuation orders for towns in Eastern Samar, particularly Guiuan, Mercedes, and Salcedo. The typhoon was last tracked approximately 235 kilometers (146 miles) east of Guiuan, with sustained winds reaching 120 kilometers (74 miles) per hour and gusts up to 150 kilometers per hour (93 mph).

Evacuations and Preparedness Efforts Underway

Governor RV Evardone of Eastern Samar stated that the evacuation efforts began early Monday with assistance from army troops, police, firefighters, and disaster-response teams. Residents are being directed to evacuation centers or sturdy concrete buildings that can withstand the storm’s impact. Authorities have particularly emphasized the risk of tidal surges that could reach heights of up to 3 meters (nearly 10 feet).

This proactive approach reflects the lessons learned from previous disasters, particularly Typhoon Haiyan, known locally as Yolanda, which devastated the region in November 2013. That storm resulted in over 7,300 fatalities and left millions displaced. Evardone noted the residents’ awareness of the dangers posed by typhoons, saying, “Nobody’s complaining among the residents because of their experience with Yolanda. They know it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

In addition to the evacuations, the Philippine Coast Guard and disaster-response agencies are on high alert, ready to assist in rescue and relief operations as needed. Fishermen have been prohibited from leaving port to avoid unnecessary risks as the storm approaches.

Impacts on Central Philippines and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

As Kalmaegi progresses westward, it is expected to impact central island provinces, including Cebu, which is still in recovery from a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck on September 30, 2023. This earthquake resulted in 79 confirmed deaths and left thousands homeless, with many structures severely damaged or destroyed.

The Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters, experiencing around 20 typhoons annually, alongside frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. This makes the nation one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world.

Authorities continue to monitor Typhoon Kalmaegi closely as it intensifies over the Philippine Sea. The safety of residents remains the top priority as the storm draws closer to land.