Thousands evacuated as tropical storm approaches Philippine coast

ANKARA

Philippine authorities evacuated thousands of people to safe places as tropical storm Fengshen, locally known as Ramil, approached coastal provinces, local media reported on Saturday.

So far, 21,945 people have been evacuated in different provinces of the Bicol region, including Albay, Masbate, and Catanduanes, since tropical storm Ramil made landfall on Saturday evening in the region, according to local media outlet Inquirer.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Ramil’s second landfall is expected in Aurora province by Sunday morning.

As of noon on Saturday, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that 3,142 passengers were stranded at various ports across the region following the suspension of sea travel due to bad weather.

In addition, 1,004 rolling cargoes, six vessels, and two motorized bancas were also held at ports.

Pagasa also warned of possible storm surges ranging from one to two meters in coastal areas of Albay, Aurora, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, Sorsogon, and other parts of the Luzon region.