Philippines braces for fifth storm in less than a month

The Philippines is bracing for another storm as Tropical Storm Usagi nears its northeastern coast, days after Typhoon Toraji. This marks the fifth major storm to hit the nation in three weeks, adding to the toll on communities and infrastructure.

Authorities are clearing roads blocked by fallen trees, power lines, and landslides from Toraji. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the public that the government is helping those affected, despite ongoing stormy weather. He emphasized the resilience of workers clearing debris for essential aid passage.

The Philippines' weather agency warned Usagi could strengthen into a typhoon by Thursday, with its winds creating large waves along the northeast coast. The government evacuated over 32,000 people from vulnerable areas.

The full extent of Toraji’s damage is still being assessed, but around 15,000 people remain in evacuation shelters. Despite minimal flooding compared to previous storms, Toraji brought heavy rainfall that overwhelmed several northern provinces. In Cagayan province, floods swamped 25 villages and rendered 22 bridges impassable. Power outages affected 13 towns and Tuguegarao city, while schools, ferries, and domestic flights were suspended.

Recent storms, including Severe Tropical Storm Trami and Typhoon Yinxing, caused 159 deaths and left large areas in ruin, affecting over 9 million people. The government has relied on international aid from the United States and Southeast Asian neighbors to transport supplies and provide relief.

Philippine officials are preparing for more storms, including Tropical Storm Man-yi, expected next week. With an average of 20 typhoons and storms hitting the archipelago annually, the Philippines remains one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, grappling with tropical cyclones, earthquakes, and active volcanoes.

Amid multiple natural disasters, a recent study pointed out that climate change is contributing to the increasing intensity, frequency, and duration of storms in the region, making future preparedness and response efforts more critical.

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