Deadly Impact of Tropical Cyclones and Habagat
Recent tropical cyclones and the southwest monsoon, also known locally as habagat, have tragically claimed 12 lives across the Philippines, sources reported. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) confirmed these fatalities on Thursday, highlighting the severe effects of these weather disturbances.
Of the 12 deaths, three occurred in Calabarzon, which includes Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon provinces. Another three fatalities were recorded in Northern Mindanao. Western Visayas suffered two deaths, while Mimaropa, the Davao Region, Caraga Region, and Metro Manila each reported one casualty. These figures emphasize the widespread reach of the storms and habagat’s destructive power.
Missing, Injured, and Affected Families
Aside from the fatalities, eight individuals remain missing, and another eight suffered injuries due to the ongoing weather events. The NDRRMC included the impacts of Severe Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon in its report. Additionally, the effects of Tropical Cyclones Dante and Emong, both currently within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), were also considered.
As of the latest update, a staggering total of 2,733,646 people, or 765,869 families, have been affected nationwide across all 17 regions. These numbers reveal the extensive human toll and displacement caused by the combined forces of tropical cyclones and habagat.
Economic Toll: Infrastructure and Agriculture
Damage to infrastructure has reached an estimated P3.7 billion, while agricultural losses stand at approximately P366.3 million. These figures underscore the significant economic impact these weather disturbances have inflicted on local communities and the country’s development.
Weather Updates: Emong and Dante
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Tropical Cyclone Emong intensified into a severe tropical storm early Thursday morning. This escalation prompted the issuance of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 3 over three areas, signaling heightened alertness for residents and local officials.
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Dante remains distant from the Philippine landmass and is expected to exit the PAR by Thursday afternoon or evening. Authorities continue to monitor its path closely to ensure public safety.
For more news and updates on tropical cyclones and habagat, visit Filipinokami.com.
