What's happened
Typhoon Kalmaegi caused at least 188 deaths across the Philippines and Vietnam, with record rainfall and flooding. The storm's increasing strength is linked to rising sea temperatures due to climate change. Multiple countries face ongoing damage, with authorities evacuating thousands and assessing widespread destruction.
What's behind the headline?
The link between climate change and storm severity is now well-established, with warmer sea surface temperatures providing more 'fuel' for tropical cyclones. Kalmaegi's path and strength exemplify this trend, as storms become more intense and cause greater damage even if their frequency remains unchanged. The region's vulnerability is compounded by saturated soils and weakened infrastructure, making each storm more destructive. Governments must prioritize climate adaptation and disaster preparedness to mitigate future impacts. The current storm pattern suggests that Southeast Asia will face more frequent and severe storms, requiring urgent regional cooperation and investment in resilient infrastructure.
What the papers say
The Japan Times highlights the scientific consensus linking rising sea temperatures to more powerful storms, quoting researchers Ben Clarke and Gianmarco Mengaldo. Reuters reports on the ongoing rescue efforts and the storm's weakening, emphasizing the widespread damage and casualties. SBS and Al Jazeera provide detailed accounts of Kalmaegi's landfall in Vietnam, illustrating the storm's destructive force and the response by local authorities. The Independent offers a comprehensive overview of the storm's aftermath in Vietnam and the Philippines, emphasizing the region's vulnerability and the broader climate context. These sources collectively underscore the increasing severity of tropical storms driven by climate change and the urgent need for adaptive measures.
How we got here
Kalmaegi is the 13th typhoon of 2025 in the South China Sea, affecting the Philippines, Vietnam, and neighboring countries. Experts link the storm's increasing intensity to rising ocean temperatures caused by human-driven climate change, which fuels stronger and wetter storms. Southeast Asia regularly faces multiple storms annually, but recent years have seen more destructive events due to warming seas.
Go deeper
Common question
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How is Typhoon Kalmaegi Impacting Vietnam and the Philippines?
Typhoon Kalmaegi has made landfall in Vietnam and affected the Philippines, causing widespread damage and prompting emergency responses. Many are wondering about the storm's current impact, the areas most affected, and how residents can stay safe. Below, we answer the most common questions about this powerful storm and its regional effects.
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Are There Other Major Weather Events Happening Now?
With Typhoon Kalmaegi causing destruction in Southeast Asia, many wonder if other regions are experiencing extreme weather. From storms to floods, understanding current weather events can help you stay informed and prepared. Below are some common questions about the latest weather disasters and how regions are responding.
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How Are Countries Responding to Climate Crises and Natural Disasters?
As climate change accelerates, nations worldwide are taking varied actions to address environmental emergencies. From international climate agreements to disaster preparedness, explore how different countries are responding to these urgent challenges. Curious about global efforts, policies, and community resilience? Read on to find out more.
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What’s the latest on climate politics and disaster response in 2025?
In 2025, climate and disaster issues are at the forefront of global politics. From EU climate negotiations to devastating typhoons in Southeast Asia, people are asking how governments are handling these crises. Here are the key questions and answers about the current state of climate policies and disaster responses worldwide.
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How Severe Was Typhoon Kalmaegi and Its Impact on Vietnam and Philippines?
Typhoon Kalmaegi, the 13th storm of 2025, has caused widespread destruction in Vietnam and the Philippines. With record rainfall, flooding, and significant damage to homes and infrastructure, many are asking just how bad this storm was and what the future holds. Below, we answer key questions about Kalmaegi's impact, affected areas, relief efforts, and the likelihood of more storms this season.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Staying updated with the latest global events is crucial in today's fast-paced world. From conflicts and political shifts to natural disasters and military actions, understanding what's happening around the world helps you stay informed and prepared. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions about today's top news stories, giving you a clear picture of the current international landscape.
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Vietnam, officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, is a country in Southeast Asia and the easternmost country on the Indochinese Peninsula. With an estimated 96.2 million inhabitants as of 2019, it is the 15th most populous country in the world. Vietn
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The Philippines, officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. Situated in the western Pacific Ocean, it consists of about 7,641 islands that are broadly categorized under three main geographical divisions from