Tropical Storm Kills Four, Forces Mass Evacuations in the Philippines

Tropical Storm Bualoi swept across the Philippines on Friday, killing at least four people and forcing over 73,000 to evacuate from flood- and landslide-prone areas in Eastern and Northern Samar. The storm, locally known as Opong, made landfall late Thursday with winds of 110 kph, causing power outages, flooding, and minor landslides. The deaths occurred in Masbate province, where victims were struck by falling trees, debris, and lightning. Bualoi is the 15th cyclone to hit the country this year and is expected to restrengthen as it moves toward Vietnam.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale