Typhoon Kalmaegi unleashed devastating winds and heavy rains across Vietnam on March 15, 2024, resulting in at least five fatalities and widespread destruction. The storm has left a trail of flattened homes, blown-off roofs, and uprooted trees. In the Philippines, survivors mourn the losses from the recent storms, with the nation now preparing for yet another incoming typhoon.
In Vietnam, a state media report confirmed that three individuals died in Dak Lak and two in Gia Lai provinces, while three others are still missing in Quang Ngai. The storm also caused significant physical damage; over 52 homes collapsed, and nearly 2,600 residences sustained damage, particularly in Gia Lai. Power outages affected more than 1.6 million households, further complicating recovery efforts.
Tragedy in the Philippines
The Philippines, which experienced a severe impact from Kalmaegi earlier in the week, has declared a state of national emergency. According to the Philippines Office of Civil Defense, the storm claimed at least 188 lives, with an additional 135 people reported missing. The region of Cebu was particularly hard hit, with 139 fatalities attributed mainly to flooding.
Families gathered to mourn their loved ones, reflecting the profound emotional toll the disaster has taken. Jimmy Abatayo, who lost his wife and nine relatives, expressed his anguish while touching his wife’s casket. “They did not hear what I said because I would never see them again,” he shared, highlighting the desperate circumstances many families face.
As recovery work begins, more than 450,000 people have been evacuated to shelters across the Philippines. The impending arrival of Typhoon Fung-wong, scheduled to reach land late on March 17 or early on March 18, adds to the anxiety. This new storm is expected to impact densely populated areas, including the capital, Manila.
Recovery and Ongoing Threats
In Vietnam, as the skies cleared on March 15, residents began to assess the damage left by Kalmaegi. Streets were littered with fallen branches and debris, while shopkeepers worked to salvage waterlogged goods. Families cleaned up mud from their homes, and repair efforts commenced in the wake of the storm’s destruction.
The storm’s aftermath also included reports of three fishermen missing off the coast of Quang Ngai after their boat was capsized by rough seas. Search efforts were suspended due to worsening weather conditions, emphasizing the ongoing risks in the area.
Vietnam faces particular vulnerability, having already dealt with several storms this year, including Typhoon Ragasa and Typhoon Bualoi, which collectively resulted in over 85 deaths and damages exceeding $1.36 billion. The impact of climate change is evident, with scientists warning that rising temperatures are intensifying storms and rainfall in Southeast Asia.
Kristen Corbosiero, a professor of atmospheric and environmental sciences at the University at Albany, noted that Typhoon Kalmaegi and the upcoming Fung-wong are among the 26th and 27th named storms of the season, comparing this to the typical 23 by this time of year. She emphasized that the region is increasingly susceptible to such extreme weather events.
As Vietnam and the Philippines confront the immediate aftermath of Typhoon Kalmaegi and prepare for the next storm, the resilience of their communities will be tested once again.
