Tropical Storm Toraji has caused severe flooding in the northern Philippines, marking the fourth storm to hit in three weeks. With winds reaching 80 mph and heavy rainfall, emergency evacuations are underway in Cagayan as the local river has surpassed critical flood levels. Another storm, Ofel, is anticipated to impact the region shortly, potentially making this the fifth storm affecting the nation in a month.
Tropical Storm Toraji has wreaked havoc in the northern Philippines, unleashing devastating floods following its landfall near San Agustin, Isabela province, on Monday morning. This storm, recognized locally as Nika, marked the fourth significant tropical storm to impact the region within a three-week period. Toraji brought with it maximum sustained winds reaching 80 mph and gusts surpassing 110 mph, leading to extensive rainfall accumulation of between 7 to 15 inches, particularly affecting the province of Cagayan. In response to the flooding crisis, Tuguegarao City Mayor Maila Ting Que has initiated immediate evacuation measures for residents residing in flood-prone areas. Approximately 561 families, equating to nearly 1,700 individuals, have been relocated to higher grounds, finding refuge in village halls, schools, and homes of relatives as the water level of the Cagayan River dramatically exceeds the critical threshold of 11 meters (approximately 36 feet) at Buntun Bridge. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has indicated that the nation is bracing for yet another storm, dubbed Ofel, which is expected to make landfall later this week. If it strikes as anticipated, Ofel will signify the fifth major storm to batter the Philippines in less than a month, following notable storms such as Tropical Storm Kristine, Super Typhoon Leon, and Tropical Storm Marce, cumulatively affecting over 4 million individuals across numerous provinces.
The Philippines is situated in the Pacific typhoon belt, experiencing an average of 20 tropical cyclones each year. Over recent weeks, the nation has been repeatedly hit by significant storms, with Tropical Storm Toraji being the latest in a series of severe weather events. The cumulative effect of these storms has led to heightened humanitarian crises across various provinces, prompting governmental and local authorities to implement emergency protocols, including evacuations and disaster preparedness measures. This current situation underscores the growing challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather patterns in the region.
In summary, the Northern Philippines continues to grapple with the repercussions of Tropical Storm Toraji, alongside a looming threat of another storm. The impact of consecutive storms within a brief period has resulted in widespread evacuations and increased risks of flooding. As authorities respond to the pressing circumstances, the ongoing situation highlights the significant vulnerability of the region to tropical cyclones, necessitating robust disaster management and preparedness efforts.
Original Source: www.foxweather.com
