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Typhoon Yinxing hits Philippines, triggers mass evacuations

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The northeast tip of the Philippines was struck by Typhoon Yinxing on Thursday, causing widespread destruction with flying debris and uprooted trees, following a recent storm that claimed at least 150 lives.

Provincial disaster official Rueli Rapsing reported that over 21,000 residents from 200 villages in Cagayan province were moved to safety before the afternoon landfall.

"There is debris flying all around. Here in Gonzaga, an entire hamburger stand flew off and the winds are ripping open the shop doors at the public market," Rapsing told AFP via telephone from Gonzaga, situated near coastal Santa Ana.

Following Severe Tropical Storm Trami and Super Typhoon Kong-rey , which collectively caused 158 fatalities, Yinxing emerged as the third significant storm to affect the Philippines within a month, according to the national disaster agency.

The typhoon hit Santa Ana and surrounding areas with sustained winds of 175 kilometres (109 miles) per hour and gusts reaching 240 kph, causing substantial rainfall and structural damage to houses.

According to the national weather agency, Cagayan with population of approximately 1.3 million, was likely to experience the most severe impact of Yinxing based on its path.

Provincial rescue official Randy Nicolas informed AFP that emergency responders in nearby Ilocos Norte province were prepared to assist local authorities.

Nicolas indicated their vigilant monitoring of potential hazards including landslides, floods, river swelling, and storm surges affecting both Ilocos Norte and Cagayan.

Meanwhile, officials reported the evacuation of nearly 500 people in the mountainous Apayao province. "We really prioritised preemptive evacuations because we want to have zero deaths here in Apayao," provincial disaster official Aldrin Agmata told AFP.

Weather forecasters predicted Yinxing would pass along Luzon's northern coast overnight Thursday before moving into the South China Sea on Friday.

Educational institutions across the northern region suspended classes, while President Ferdinand Marcos directed all government agencies to maintain high alert for rapid response.
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