Typhoon Kalmaegi Death Toll Reaches 204 in Philippines
Widespread Destruction in Central Visayas
The death toll from Typhoon Kalmaegi in the Philippines rose to 204 on Saturday, with 109 people still missing, according to state-run media. Authorities reported that 156 people were injured as the storm caused widespread destruction.
Cebu province in the Central Visayas region suffered the most, with 141 fatalities. Other provinces also reported casualties: Antique, Iloilo, Guimaras, Bohol, and Leyte each recorded one death; Southern Leyte two; Capiz three; Agusan del Sur six; Negros Occidental 27; and Negros Oriental 20.
Millions Affected and Displaced
So far, 2.9 million people have been affected by Kalmaegi, and 282,490 individuals were forced to evacuate to temporary shelters. The devastation comes just days after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck Cebu on September 30, killing many and displacing thousands.
In response, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national calamity on Thursday to address the damage caused by Kalmaegi and to prepare for an approaching storm.
Super Typhoon Fung-wong Hits
Late Friday, the Philippines experienced Super Typhoon Fung-wong, locally named Uwan. Heavy rains forced authorities to cancel flights, close schools, and suspend sea travel in affected areas.
Impact in Vietnam
After crossing the Philippines, Kalmaegi moved to Vietnam, where it has killed five people and injured several others. The storm damaged more than 2,000 homes and affected roughly 2.3 million people, with 398,000 seeking refuge in evacuation centers.
Authorities in both countries continue relief operations as communities struggle to recover from the back-to-back natural disasters.
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