Typhoon Kalmaegi intensified as it made landfall in the central Philippines on Tuesday, unleashing powerful winds and torrential rain that the state weather bureau warned could cause “life-threatening” conditions across large parts of the Visayas region.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Kalmaegi, locally named Tino, packed sustained winds of 150 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts reaching 205 kph as it barreled across the central islands.
The agency placed much of the Visayas under Signal No. 3, the second-highest storm warning level, as authorities ordered evacuations in vulnerable areas.
The weather bureau said the typhoon’s interaction with rugged terrain may cause slight weakening as it crosses the Visayas, but it is expected to maintain typhoon strength before emerging over the South China Sea by Wednesday.
“Due to interaction with the terrain, Tino may slightly weaken while crossing Visayas. However, it is expected to remain at typhoon intensity throughout its passage,” PAGASA said in a morning advisory.
More than 160 flights to and from affected areas were canceled, while the Philippine Coast Guard ordered vessels to stay in port and urged those already at sea to seek the nearest safe harbor immediately.
In Southern Leyte, disaster officials evacuated residents from coastal and flood-prone communities amid rising seas and strong winds.
PAGASA also warned of “life-threatening and damaging storm surges” that could reach over three meters (10 feet) high along low-lying coastal areas in the Visayas and parts of northern Mindanao.
Kalmaegi’s onslaught comes as the Philippines grapples with the aftermath of recent disasters, including earthquakes and destructive storms. In September, Super Typhoon Ragasa battered northern Luzon, paralyzing transportation and government services as it brought fierce winds and torrential rains.
The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, is struck by an average of 20 tropical cyclones each year.
Authorities have urged residents in Kalmaegi’s path to remain indoors, stay alert for flooding and landslides, and heed evacuation orders as emergency teams brace for the storm’s full impact.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
