16 Dec 2017 | 03:30 PM UTC
Philippines: At least three killed by Tropical Storm Kai-Tak Dec. 16 /update 2
Tropical Storm Kai-Tak (Urduja) hits the Philippines on December 16, causing flooding and landslides; at least three people killed and 77,000 evacuated
Event
Tropical Storm Kai-Tak (named "Urduja" in the Philippines) made landfall in the eastern Philippines on the afternoon (local time) of Saturday, December 16. The storm hit the island of Samar with wind gusts of up to 110 km/h (68 mph), causing power outages and landslides. Local officials said that at least three people were killed on the island of Leyte in the town of Mahaplag and the city of Ormoc. Over 77,000 residents have been evacuated on Samar and Leyte, according to local authorities. The military has been deployed to rescue people from the rising floodwaters. Ferry services in the path of the storm have been suspended and roads throughout the region may be blocked due to flooding or landslides. Kai-Tak is expected to bring additional heavy rain on Sunday, December 17, as it moves westward.
Context
Typhoons and tropical storms regularly strike the Philippines during the monsoon season - which spans from November to April in the northeast, and from May to October in the southwest.
Advice
Individuals present in the Philippines are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given.
Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.
