Over 22,000 evacuated as Storm Ramil sweeps through Luzon
MANILA, Philippines — More than 22,000 people were evacuated in Luzon as Tropical Storm Ramil (international name: Fengshan) brought heavy rains and strong winds across southern and central parts of the island.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said in its situation report Sunday, October 19., 22,311 individuals were evacuated from Calabarzon and Bicol (Region 5) as local governments implemented preemptive measures ahead of Ramil’s landfall.
The storm also disrupted transport operations across the country. At least 39 seaports were affected, leaving 3,242 passengers, 1,050 rolling cargoes, six vessels and seven motor bancas stranded, according to the NDRRMC.
However, the Philippine Coast Guard reported a higher number: 6,560 passengers, 41 vessels, two motor bancas, and 1,911 rolling cargoes stuck at various ports. Another 51 vessels and 29 motor bancas have taken shelter to ride out the storm.
Despite the extensive displacement and travel disruptions, authorities said no damage to infrastructure or agriculture has been reported so far.
Storm status. As of 8 a.m. Sunday, PAGASA said Ramil’s center was located over the coastal waters of Mauban, Quezon, with maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gusts reaching 90 kph. It was moving west-northwest at 20 kph, prompting Signal Nos. 1 and 2 across several Luzon provinces.
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