The storm's impact has also led to significant disruptions in transportation. 4,303 passengers are stranded at seaports following the cancellation of 26 trips in Bicol.
THE devastating effects of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami) continue to be felt in Bicol, with the reported death toll climbing to 26 on Friday. This figure, which is subject to validation, represents a significant increase from the previous day’s count of 20.
Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) also reported three people missing and nine injured in the region as of 3 a.m. A total of 314,309 people (106,303 families) are currently seeking refuge in evacuation centers as 586 barangays remain flooded, with the majority (540) located in Camarines Sur.
The storm’s impact has also led to significant disruptions in transportation. 4,303 passengers are stranded at seaports following the cancellation of 26 trips in Bicol. Additionally, eight flights have been canceled in the region, and 835 light vehicles and 831 heavy vehicles remain stranded.
In response to the crisis, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed 1,382 personnel to assist victims of the tropical cyclone. Schools and government offices in Luzon remain closed for the third consecutive day due to the ongoing effects of Kristine.
As of 5 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, the northern and central portions of Sorsogon, as well as the northern and central portions of Masbate including Ticao and Burias Islands.
Kristine was last observed 125 kilometers west northwest of Bacnotan, La Union, packing maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 115 kph. The severe tropical storm is moving west northwestward at 25 kph.
The Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical storms annually, often resulting in heavy rains, strong winds, and deadly landslides.
