The Philippines has urgently evacuated thousands from coastal regions as Typhoon Marce (locally known as Yinxing) barrels towards the country’s northern provinces, expected to make landfall within hours. The evacuation comes only weeks after a recent storm left over 150 dead.
With sustained winds reaching 175 km/h (109 mph), Marce could strike the northern coastline of Cagayan province later Thursday or early Friday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). This marks the third significant storm in a month, following Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon, which caused widespread damage and fatalities.
In Cagayan, approximately 17,000 residents have moved into temporary shelters to avoid the intense rains and potential floods. Provincial rescue official Rueli Rapsing reported ongoing evacuations in multiple municipalities and highlighted the need for additional disaster relief funds to support evacuees.
Neighboring Ilocos Norte has also mobilized emergency teams to address risks of landslides, floods, and storm surges, said Randy Nicolas, a local rescue official. The mountainous region of Apayao has evacuated close to 500 people, aiming to prevent casualties.
Classes have been suspended across the north, and President Ferdinand Marcos has placed all government agencies on high alert for a swift emergency response. “Every life is important, and we must always be prepared,” he emphasized.