Typhoon Kalmaegi's death toll climbs to at least 66 in the Philippines

Typhoon Kalmaegi's Death Toll Rises to 66 in the Philippines

The Philippines faces around 20 storms and typhoons annually, often striking disaster-prone regions where millions live in poverty. Cebu province, the hardest hit by Typhoon Kalmaegi, has been left in ruins after days of relentless rainfall and flooding.

Unprecedented Flooding in Cebu

Pamela Baricuatro, governor of Cebu, called Typhoon Kalmaegi "unprecedented," as floodwaters swept away vehicles and even shipping containers.

On Wednesday, November 4, the death toll in the Philippines reached 66, with Cebu alone accounting for 49 fatalities. Floodwaters described as unlike any seen before surged through towns and cities, tossing cars, trucks, and even huge shipping containers into the current.

Authorities and Rescue Efforts

Civil defense deputy administrator Rafaelito Alejandro confirmed the tally, saying, "It was the major cities that got hit (with floods), highly urbanized areas," and adding that 26 people remained missing.

Alejandro also noted that the immediate task for local teams was to clear roads blocked by thick layers of debris left behind once the floods subsided.

Aftermath and Local Accounts

AFP reporters spoke with Cebu residents as they cleaned streets transformed into rivers just a day earlier. Small business owners faced heavy losses, and many families began sorting through damaged belongings.

"The flood here yesterday was really severe," said 53-year-old shopkeeper Reynaldo Vergara. "Everything in my small shop was washed away. That’s where the water came from."

Summary

Typhoon Kalmaegi left widespread devastation in Cebu and surrounding regions, killing 66 people and triggering one of the worst floods in recent Philippine history.

Author’s summary: Typhoon Kalmaegi ravaged Cebu and nearby areas, causing 66 deaths and massive flooding that turned cities into rivers and left lasting damage to communities.

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Le Monde.fr Le Monde.fr — 2025-11-05

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