ASIA ON HIGH ALERT: Cyclone Kalmaegi Threatens to Unleash Chaos on Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos – Aussies Warned to Flee
- Tropical Cyclone Kalmaegi forecast to bring heavy rain and destructive winds to South-East Asia
- Australian government issues travel warnings for impacted countries, urging citizens to contact airlines and travel providers
- Over 150,000 people evacuated in the Philippines as cyclone approaches, with warnings of flash flooding, landslides and storm surges
A powerful tropical cyclone is bearing down on South-East Asia, prompting a high alert for Australian travellers in the region. Cyclone Kalmaegi is expected to make landfall in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in the coming days, bringing with it heavy rain and destructive winds.
The Australian government has issued a Smart Traveller warning, urging citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to these countries. “Heavy rain and dangerous winds are expected, which may cause flash flooding and landslides,” the warning states. “Transport, including airport closures and flight cancellations, along with essential services, may also be affected.”
In a dire warning, the Office of Civil Defence in the Philippines said that residents in eastern provinces should prepare for torrential rains, potentially destructive winds and storm surges of up to 3 metres. The cyclone is expected to bring sustained winds of up to 140km/h and gusts of up to 170km/h.
Residents in the Philippines are taking no chances, with over 150,000 people evacuating to safer ground. Displaced residents staying in flimsy tents are being moved to sturdier shelters, while villagers on central Negros island are being warned of the risk of volcanic mudflows on Kanlaon volcano.
The cyclone’s impact is likely to be felt far and wide, with the Philippines still reeling from a 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck on September 30, killing at least 79 people and displacing thousands.
Eastern Samar Governor RV Evardone told the Associated Press that residents are not taking any chances, given their experience with Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. “Nobody’s complaining among the residents because of their experience with Yolanda. They know it’s better to be safe than sorry,” he said.
The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, with around 20 typhoons and storms hitting the country each year. Inter-island ferries and fishing boats have been prohibited from venturing into rough seas, stranding over 3500 passengers and cargo truck drivers in nearly 100 seaports.
Australians travelling to the region are advised to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities. With the cyclone forecast to further strengthen over the Philippine Sea, it’s a waiting game for those in the path of the storm.