The tropical cyclone “Gaemi” has caused massive damage in the Philippines. The extent of the damage is only gradually becoming apparent – and the death toll is rising. More than 30 people died and 210,000 were left homeless.
The number of deaths in the Philippines caused by Typhoon Gaemi is rising. At least 33 people died in landslides and flash floods caused by the severe tropical storm, according to reports from various police stations.
Since the beginning of the week, the storm has left a trail of destruction in the Philippines. In the capital Manila alone, around twelve people died. In some streets, the water was several meters high. Yesterday, the tropical storm moved on to Taiwan, where, according to authorities, at least seven people died and 785 were injured.
Somewhat weakened, “Gaemi” then moved on to China. Here, more than 150,000 people were brought to safety as a precaution.
More than 1.3 million people affected by consequences
Eyewitnesses reported that the water masses in the Philippines have now largely receded. The extent of the damage is now slowly becoming clear. Some areas in Manila were completely sealed off at times.
According to disaster management, more than 1.3 million people in the Southeast Asian island state have been affected by the consequences of severe storms. Around 210,000 people are homeless and have had to be accommodated in evacuation centers.
Climate change intensifies hurricanes
According to the Philippine weather service PAGASA, “Gaemi” had intensified the southwest monsoon, which had already caused heavy rainfall since July 11.
Typhoons are common in the region between July and October. Experts say climate change is increasing the intensity of the cyclones, which are accompanied by heavy rains, flash floods and strong gusts of wind.
