Tropical Storm Trami, which has already caused significant loss of life in the Philippines, is anticipated to return this weekend, according to local weather services. The storm is expected to approach the Philippines again tomorrow, with the potential to inflict further damage.
Trami initially made landfall in the Philippines last Thursday, resulting in 26 fatalities and displacing over 160,000 residents. The death toll has since risen to at least 81, with most casualties caused by flooding and landslides.
The Bicol region, southeast of Manila, has been particularly hard-hit, along with rural areas in Batangas province to the south of the capital. Dozens remain missing as search efforts continue.
Emergency services are continuing rescue efforts, working to reach people trapped in homes and other locations, though high water levels and widespread mudslides are complicating operations. Adding to the challenge, the storm appears likely to return tomorrow.
Currently situated over the South China Sea, the storm may reverse course, potentially impacting the west coast of the Philippines. While landfall is not anticipated, the strong winds and heavy rain associated with the storm “could still cause substantial damage,” Philippine President Marcos told Australia’s ABC News.
Tropical storms are frequent in the Philippines, with over twenty occurring annually, often bringing intense rainfall, powerful winds, and landslides.
