APD | Death toll in "Usman" catastrophe up to 35

By APD writer Melo M. Acuna

LEGAZPI CITY, Dec. 30 (APD) – At least 35 persons died after Tropical Depression “Usman” brought heavy rains across the region since Friday morning. Landslides, swollen rivers, flooded rice lands worsened the situation as government officials brought emergency assistance to affected residents.

Police Chief Insp. Malou Calubaquib, Bicol Police Spokesperson. /Melo M. Acuna

Police Chief Inspector Malou Calubaquib, Philippine National Police Bicol region spokesperson said 12 of the dead were from Albay Province, nine others were from Camarines Sur, seven hailed from Masbate, Sorsogon had four while Camarines Norte had three dead residents. Most of the victims died from landslides after heavy rains loosened soil in elevated areas and caused mud slides.

Floods have prevented land travel in several areas in the Bicol Region in the southeast tip of the Philippines’ biggest island of Luzon.

“Usman” had winds of 55 kilometers per hour and gustiness of 65 kilometers per hour and considered weak by weathermen but the rains it brought was enormous.

The weather has improved this afternoon in this city.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)