Typhoon Kalmaegi has unleashed devastating impacts across Southeast Asia, leaving communities reeling in its wake. First making landfall in the Philippines early Tuesday, the storm carved a path of destruction before slamming into central Vietnam Thursday evening.
As of Friday morning, the Philippines’ National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council confirmed 188 lives lost and 135 people still missing. China Media Group reported widespread flooding across 123 areas, while more than 9,500 homes and 81 public facilities—hospitals and schools among them—were damaged. Power outages hit 162 towns and communications were disrupted in 22. Classes were suspended in 707 towns, work stopped in 483, and agricultural losses topped 10 million Philippine Pesos (about $169,260).
On Thursday, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos declared a nationwide state of calamity, unlocking emergency funds and support for relief operations.
In central Vietnam, Kalmaegi battered Dak Lak Province, toppling houses and leaving at least one person dead. Local authorities are now coordinating damage assessments and rescue efforts amid heavy rains and flooding.
For young global citizens and digital nomads, Kalmaegi’s path underscores the urgent need for climate resilience. Entrepreneurs and changemakers can leverage data-driven insights to support recovery, while travellers should heed local advisories and lend their voices to recovery initiatives.
Stay tuned for updates as relief teams mobilize and communities begin the long road to rebuilding.
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Typhoon Kalmaegi kills 188 in Philippines, strikes central Vietnam
cgtn.com
