The Philippines is on high alert as Tropical Storm Kong-rey moves closer, bringing with it an expected wave of intense rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas in the coming hours. Following closely on the heels of Severe Tropical Storm Trami, which left devastating destruction and loss of life, Kong-rey’s approach has prompted a fresh series of warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Recent Trami Impact and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
Severe Tropical Storm Trami, which struck the Philippines in late October, has left a tragic toll. With at least 116 lives lost and dozens still missing, the storm displaced close to a million people, many of whom remain in evacuation centers or have taken shelter with relatives. Trami’s powerful winds and torrential rains resulted in widespread flooding, particularly in the populous Bicol region, where the majority of the casualties were due to drowning.
Kong-rey’s Projected Path and Intensity
As per PAGASA’s latest bulletin, Tropical Storm Kong-rey is expected to strengthen into a typhoon by Tuesday. The storm’s path indicates a close approach to the smaller northern Philippine islands by midweek, with potential landfall on Taiwan by Friday. The agency has advised caution along the country’s northeast coast, where rough seas and dangerous wind conditions are anticipated.
Preparedness Measures and Public Advisories
The lowest level of a five-stage storm alert has been raised along the northeast coast of the Philippines, encouraging residents to prepare for potential impacts. The national disaster agency has also advised against sea travel and coastal activities as Kong-rey’s presence escalates.
As the Philippines continues its recovery efforts from Trami, the arrival of Kong-rey is a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability to frequent tropical storms, which number around 20 annually and often bring significant destruction to homes, infrastructure, and lives.