Janice R. Andrews
The Philippines faces another crisis as Super Typhoon Man-Yi (local name: Pepito) makes landfall, becoming the sixth typhoon to strike the nation within a month. The powerful storm hit Catanduanes island’s eastern coast at 21:40 local time, bringing winds of 195 km/h (121 mph), according to official weather reports.
Severe Weather Alert
Weather authorities warn of imminent dangers including:
- Life-threatening storm surges
- Extreme rainfall exceeding 300mm (11 inches) over the weekend
- Wind speeds potentially reaching 270 km/h
- Coastal waves up to 15 meters (49 feet)
While Manila may avoid the worst conditions, northern Luzon remains in the storm’s projected path until Monday.
Emergency Response in Action
The approaching typhoon has triggered massive preventive measures:
- Over 500,000 residents have evacuated to safety
- Multiple flights have been canceled
- Emergency services stand ready for rescue operations
“It is more dangerous now for those in landslide-prone areas because the ground has been saturated by the consecutive typhoons,” warns Civil Defense Chief Ariel Nepomuceno.
Local residents share their concerns. “We are terrified of the typhoon, as it may intensify and the waters can rise,” says Glenda Llamas, who evacuated from Albay province. Another evacuee, Melchor Bilay from Sorsogon province, describes growing anxiety from repeated storm exposure.
Unprecedented Storm Frequency
The Philippines has endured an unusual succession of severe storms this season:
- Tropical Storm Trami – Caused extensive flooding
- Typhoon Kong-rey – Resulted in three deaths
- Typhoon Yinxing – Dropped 250mm of rain
- Typhoon Toraji
- Typhoon Usagi – Produced 3-meter storm surges
- Super Typhoon Man-Yi (current)
Climate Change Impact
The IPCC notes that while global tropical cyclone numbers may not increase, their intensity is likely to strengthen due to climate change. Scientists predict:
- Higher rainfall rates
- Stronger wind speeds
- More intense storms overall
The Philippines’ location in the Pacific Typhoon Belt makes it particularly vulnerable to these intensifying weather patterns. As Man-Yi moves across the region, emergency responders and international aid organizations prepare for potentially significant recovery efforts in its wake.
