A Relentless Onslaught: Sixth Typhoon Hits the Philippines in a Month
The Philippines has been struck by Super Typhoon Man-Yi, locally known as Pepito, marking the sixth typhoon to hit the nation within a single month. The powerful storm made landfall at 9:40 PM local time on the eastern island of Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h, according to the state weather agency. The storm brings a grim warning of life-threatening storm surges, severe winds, and heavy rains.
Mass Evacuations as Catastrophic Storm Approaches
In anticipation of the storm’s arrival, hundreds of thousands of residents in vulnerable areas were evacuated to safer locations. Authorities have issued urgent warnings about the storm’s destructive potential, citing risks of widespread flooding, deadly mudslides, and storm surges reaching up to 15 meters along eastern coastal regions. Local governments and relief organizations are bracing for the impact and mobilizing resources for rescue and recovery efforts.
A Trail of Destruction: Typhoon Season’s Heavy Toll
Man-Yi’s arrival follows a devastating series of storms that have battered the Philippines over the past month, leaving at least 160 people dead. The frequent typhoons have overwhelmed disaster response teams and strained resources, with many communities still reeling from the destruction caused by earlier storms. The relentless weather has made recovery efforts increasingly challenging for affected regions.
Severe Weather Forecast: Rain, Winds, and Coastal Risks
Super Typhoon Man-Yi is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall, particularly in northern regions, where over 300mm (11 inches) of rain is forecast for Saturday and Sunday. The deluge is likely to cause severe flooding and landslides, adding to the storm’s catastrophic potential. Winds could reach up to 270 km/h, and massive waves of up to 15 meters are predicted along the eastern coastline, posing significant risks to both residents and infrastructure.
Catanduanes Bears the Brunt of Initial Impact
The eastern island of Catanduanes, where the typhoon made landfall, is facing the brunt of Man-Yi’s power. As a coastal area, it is particularly vulnerable to storm surges and wind damage. Early reports indicate severe disruptions, with power outages and significant structural damage already observed in some regions. Emergency responders are on high alert, though conditions have made immediate relief efforts difficult.
Also learn about Philippines Braces for Fifth Major Storm in Three Weeks as Tropical Storm Usagi Approaches.
