The Philippines has ordered evacuations, stockpiled essential supplies, and mobilised military support in preparation for Typhoon Yinxing, which is expected to approach northeastern towns later this week, officials announced on Tuesday. The storm, with winds reaching 120 kph (75 mph), is currently about 590 km (367 miles) from Baler in Aurora province, according to state weather agency Pag-asa.
Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro emphasised the urgency of early evacuations, particularly for remote communities that might be cut off during the storm. “Various government agencies have combined efforts to issue early warnings, plan ahead, and pre-position the goods and services needed,” Teodoro stated. Soldiers are ready to support rescue efforts, and reservoirs are preemptively releasing water to reduce the risk of flooding.
Typhoon Yinxing could make landfall between Thursday evening and Friday morning, potentially impacting northern Cagayan province with heavy rains and powerful winds, said Nathaniel Servando from the weather agency. However, the storm’s course could still shift. Civil defence administrator Ariel Nepomuceno warned that approximately 24 million people could be directly affected.
This is the third major storm to threaten the Philippines in less than a month. Recent storms, Trami and Super Typhoon Kong-rey, devastated Luzon island, claiming 151 lives and leaving 21 people missing. “We have learned a lot. That’s why our processes have been adjusted,” Teodoro noted, reflecting on the government’s efforts to improve response readiness.
The Philippines is struck by an average of 20 tropical storms each year, bringing heavy rains, high winds, and frequent landslides.
Melissa Enoch
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