Ferocious Trami Strikes: Schools Shut, Thousands Flee

Tropical Storm Trami, locally known as Kristine, hit Luzon, Philippines, causing schools and offices to close. With winds up to 160 kph, it led to severe rainfall, flooding, and landslides. At least 14 fatalities occurred, displacing thousands. The storm continued towards the South China Sea.

Tropical Storm Trami made a powerful landfall early Thursday on the northeastern coast of the Philippines' main Luzon island, forcing shut schools and government offices for a second day.

The storm, known locally as Kristine, brought with it sustained winds reaching 95 kph and gusts up to 160 kph. As it moved westward across Isabela province towards the South China Sea, authorities braced for heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, and storm surges across northern provinces.

Trami has claimed at least 14 lives, including 12 in central Naga city. Thousands have fled in central Bicol region as floodwaters submerged homes. The central bank suspended foreign exchange trading and monetary operations. The Philippines faces an average of 20 tropical storms annually, often resulting in significant damages.

(With inputs from agencies.)