7 Dead After Deadly Storms Hit Philippines

At least seven people have been reported dead as Tropical Storm Ewiniar wreaked havoc across the Philippines over the weekend.

The storm, which brought powerful winds and torrential rains to southern provinces near the capital, Manila, has caused widespread disruption, prompting an ongoing search and rescue operation, as confirmed by President Ferdinand Marcos on Tuesday.

Ewiniar's ferocious winds and heavy rainfall led to the closure of airports and seaports, leaving many without power.

The storm’s devastation has affected approximately 27,000 individuals, disrupting operations at three airports and nine seaports.

As of Tuesday, Ewiniar is moving towards Japan's eastern coast, with winds reaching up to 130 kilometers per hour.

The storm is expected to intensify, with wind speeds potentially hitting 160 kilometers per hour.

Before embarking on a state visit to Brunei, President Marcos emphasized the severity of the situation and assured the public that search and rescue efforts will persist.

The government is prioritizing the affected regions to ensure the safety and recovery of those impacted.

Ewiniar marks the first tropical storm to hit the Philippines in 2024. The Southeast Asian nation typically experiences around 20 storms annually, often resulting in heavy rainfall and deadly landslides.