Typhoon Kalmaegi has unleashed devastation across Southeast Asia, killing at least 188 people and leaving 135 missing in the Philippines as of Friday. The storm triggered nationwide flooding, damaged over 9,500 homes, and disrupted essential services in hundreds of towns, according to the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Agricultural losses have surpassed 10 million Philippine Pesos ($169,260), with 81 public facilities – including hospitals and schools – suffering structural damage. Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos declared a nationwide state of calamity on Thursday to accelerate relief efforts.
The typhoon later struck central Vietnam on Thursday evening, collapsing homes and killing at least one resident in Dak Lak Province. Authorities in both countries are conducting search-and-rescue operations as floodwaters recede.
Climate scientists note this disaster highlights Asia’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events, with regional cooperation frameworks being tested. The storm’s path through vital agricultural zones raises concerns about short-term food security and supply chain disruptions.
