Typhoon Kalmaegi, also called Tino locally, has wreaked havoc across the Philippines, resulting in at least 66 fatalities. The storm brought intense winds of up to 165 kph and heavy rainfall, leading to severe flooding, landslides, and destruction of infrastructure.
During rescue operations, a military helicopter reportedly crashed, killing six personnel. Thousands of residents have been displaced, with rescue and relief efforts underway as Kalmaegi moves toward Vietnam.
Background and Early Impact
Typhoon Kalmaegi made landfall on November 4 in the southern Philippines, marking the 20th tropical storm to hit the archipelago this year. The region was already vulnerable, recovering from an earlier magnitude 6.9 earthquake just weeks prior.
The storm initially affected the Visayas and Mindanao regions, with authorities issuing warnings and evacuations for over 200,000 residents in coastal and flood-prone areas.
The storm’s arrival was preceded by intense rainfall, with Cebu City receiving more than 183 millimeters, almost its entire monthly average, in just 24 hours. Rescue operations faced significant challenges, not least due to the storm’s ferocity and adverse weather conditions.
Devastation and Casualties
Kalmaegi’s heavy winds and flooding led to tragic loss of life and extensive damage. At least 66 people have died, most through drowning in floodwaters that inundated homes and submerged vehicles and roads. Among the deceased are six military personnel who were involved in relief efforts when their helicopter crashed in Agusan del Sur, Mindanao.
Rescue teams have been working tirelessly, but the situation remains critical with many communities cut off or flooded. Pictures and reports depict collapsed buildings, uprooted trees, and debris across towns like Cebu, Bohol, and Negros. Over 380,000 people have been displaced, with thousands seeking shelter in evacuation centres.
Current Situation and Response Efforts
The storm is currently weakening as it moves westward over the South China Sea, with predictions indicating it will impact Vietnam by Friday. Despite the decline in intensity, rescue efforts continue, with authorities warning of ongoing floods, landslides, and disrupted infrastructure. The Philippine government has deployed military and rescue teams to assist stranded residents, distribute food and supplies, and clear debris.
The Disaster Response Agency reports that over 104 ports have been affected, and thousands of flights remain cancelled. Power outages persist across affected regions, compounding the difficulties faced by survivors. The situation remains fluid, with officials carefully monitoring Kalmaegi’s trajectory and potential impacts.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This tragedy underscores the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in vulnerable regions. It also highlights the bravery of rescue workers risking their lives amidst dangerous conditions.
We believe that governments, communities, and international agencies must collaborate more effectively to establish early warning systems and ensure the safety of both residents and emergency personnel. Empathy and proactive cooperation can help minimise future devastation and foster social resilience.
