Typhoon Kalmaegi (known as Neneng locally) has devastated northern Philippines, washing away homes, flipping cars, and claiming lives before advancing toward Vietnam. With winds reaching 130 km/h (80 mph), the storm displaced thousands and triggered massive floods—raising concerns about further destruction as it gains strength over the South China Sea.
Philippines Hit Hard: Homes Destroyed, Thousands Displaced
The typhoon struck Cagayan province early Sunday, submerging coastal towns and triggering landslides. In Pangasinan, cars floated in waist-deep floods, while Ilocos Norte saw roofs torn off and power lines downed, leaving entire villages in darkness.
“Our house vanished in minutes,” said Maria Santos, an Aparri resident. “The water surged too fast to save anything.” Over 5,000 families fled to shelters, and the Philippine Coast Guard halted sea travel, stranding passengers.
Death Toll Rises as Rescue Teams Deploy
At least three deaths were confirmed, including a child swept away by floods and two victims of landslides. Search teams scour debris for missing persons while the Philippine Red Cross distributes food and medical aid.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered urgent relief, stressing preparedness in a country battered by 20 typhoons yearly. “All resources are mobilized,” he pledged.
Vietnam Braces for Impact
Now headed for central Vietnam, Kalmaegi is expected to hit Quang Binh and Ha Tinh provinces by midweek. Authorities are evacuating coastal zones, fearing a repeat of September’s deadly Typhoon Noru.
“We’re acting early to save lives,” said Tran Quang Hoai, Vietnam’s disaster agency head. Emergency stockpiles and shelters are being readied.
Climate Change Fuels Stronger Storms
Scientists link Kalmaegi’s fury to warming oceans, which intensify cyclones in Southeast Asia. The UN IPCC warns such disasters will worsen, urging better infrastructure and early-warning systems.
How to Support Victims
- Donate to Oxfam, Save the Children, or Philippine Red Cross.
- Volunteer or give blood via local aid groups.
What’s Ahead?
While Kalmaegi may weaken after Vietnam landfall, Cambodia and Laos could face flooding later this week.
Follow NextMinuteNews for live updates on evacuations, relief efforts, and storm tracking.
