Philippines - October 24, 2024

Dramatic video footage from Natonin Police reveals a massive mudslide barreling down mountainsides, triggered by relentless rains from Tropical Storm Trami. The storm, known locally as “Kristine,” has claimed more than a dozen lives, left several missing, and impacted over 2 million people across the Philippines.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council confirmed widespread devastation, with over 1 million residents affected and thousands likely displaced by landslides and flash floods. Northern regions, already soaked from previous storms, were especially vulnerable as Trami's heavy downpours pushed daily rainfall totals past 5 inches, overwhelming communities.

Former Vice President Maria Leonor Robredo shared the dire situation on social media: "People have been stuck on rooftops for hours. Rescue trucks are stalled due to the floods." With roads closed in places like Ha'rang, Banawel, Natonin, authorities struggle to reach those in need.

As the storm system moves westward away from the islands, officials warn of continued rain in the days ahead, prolonging the agony for the nation already deep in its rainy season. While damage assessments are ongoing, disaster officials predict substantial losses across hundreds of flood-stricken communities.

Manila, with nearly 14 million residents, remains on edge, bracing for more rainfall even as Trami's remnants drift away.