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Severe Flooding and Destruction in the Central Philippines
At least 40 people have died and almost 400,000 residents fled their homes as Typhoon Kalmaegi swept across the central Philippines.
The storm, one of the strongest of 2025, flooded large parts of Cebu and nearby islands. Officials fear the number of victims will rise as rescue work continues.
Videos show people climbing to rooftops while raging floodwaters carry away cars, shipping containers, and homes. Rescue teams are using boats to reach those trapped by the rising water.
Helicopter Crashes During Relief Effort
A Philippine Air Force helicopter crashed during a relief mission in Agusan del Sur, northern Mindanao, killing all six crew members.
The aircraft lost contact shortly after takeoff. Search teams later found the wreckage and recovered the bodies.
Cebu Faces Unprecedented Floods
Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro called the flooding “unprecedented.”
“We expected strong winds, but it’s the water that’s destroying everything,” she said. “The floodwaters are devastating.”
Most victims drowned as muddy water poured down hills and through towns. Many small homes were destroyed, leaving thick mud behind once the waters receded.
Thousands in Shelters After Evacuations
Almost 400,000 people moved to evacuation centers before the storm hit. Authorities say this quick action saved many lives.
In Cebu City, residents like Don del Rosario described the disaster as the worst in memory.
“I’ve lived here for 28 years, and this is the worst storm we’ve seen,” he said.
Storm Weakens but Heavy Rain Continues
Locally known as Typhoon Tino, Kalmaegi weakened after making landfall early Tuesday but still brought winds of 80 mph (130 km/h).
The storm is crossing the Visayas region and is expected to move into the South China Sea by Wednesday. Authorities warn that more landslides and flooding could occur as rain continues.
Series of Disasters Hits the Philippines
The Philippines faces about 20 typhoons each year. Kalmaegi follows Super Typhoon Ragasa and Typhoon Bualoi, which struck in September and killed over a dozen people.
Heavy rains this year have caused widespread flooding and anger over unfinished flood control projects blamed on corruption.
A 6.9-magnitude earthquake also hit Cebu on 30 September, adding to the region’s damage.
Vietnam Braces for Kalmaegi’s Arrival
Meteorologists say Typhoon Kalmaegi will move west into the South China Sea before reaching Vietnam. The country is already seeing record rainfall, and coastal communities are on alert.
