Typhoon Kalmaegi Ravages Vietnam and Philippines
Typhoon Kalmaegi struck Vietnam on Friday, unleashing violent winds and heavy rains that caused widespread destruction. At least five people died as homes were flattened, roofs torn off, and trees uprooted.
Impact and Recovery Efforts in Vietnam
As the storm advanced into Cambodia later on Friday, recovering communities in central Vietnam began clearing debris and repairing damaged houses.
Philippines Faces Another Storm Amid Grief
Earlier in the week, Kalmaegi's deadly impact in the Philippines left dozens of people dead, mainly due to flooding in the central province of Cebu where 139 lives were lost. Survivors mourned their loved ones and prepared for another incoming typhoon.
“I told my family to swim, you will be saved, just swim, be brave and keep swimming,” said Jimmy Abatayo, 53, who lost his wife and nine relatives. “They did not hear what I said because I would never see them again.”
Relatives gathered in a basketball gym converted into a funeral parlor, standing before rows of white coffins adorned with flowers and photos of the deceased.
Government Response
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a national state of emergency in response to the catastrophe.
Summary
Typhoon Kalmaegi claimed lives and caused severe damage in Vietnam and the Philippines, with communities beginning recovery amid ongoing grief and new storm threats.
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