Philippines: Recovery efforts ongoing in Luzon September 17 /update 8

Event

Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing in northern Luzon as of Monday, September 17, following the passage of Typhoon Mangkhut. According to police officials, the death toll has risen to at least 59 people as of the evening (local time) of Sunday, September 16, after more victims of a landslide were discovered. At least another 200 people were also injured by the storm. In the town of Baguio, authorities fear that more than two dozen miners may have been killed after their bunkhouse was hit by a landslide. Winds from Mangkhut collapsed houses, tore off roofs, and downed power lines in the town of Baggao. Roads throughout northern Luzon remain blocked by landslides or flood waters. According to media reports, over 105,000 people were forced to evacuate from their homes. Officials believe that the casualty counts may rise in the coming days as communication networks and electricity are restored to the area. Ongoing power, telecommunications, and ground transportation disruptions are expected to continue through the coming hours and days.

Context

Typhoon Mangkhut, known locally as Ompong, made landfall at 01:40 (local time) on Saturday, September 15 in Cagayan province with 193 km/h (120 mph) winds and 1.8 m (6 ft) of storm surge, causing widespread damage to Luzon.

Advice

Individuals present in the abovementioned regions are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, follow instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. 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.