Topic 3: Experiencing Typhoon Yari
Where and when it happened?
Typhoon Yari struck my hometown when I was living in a coastal area in late September 2022. It was one of the most powerful storms we had faced in years.
What were you doing when it happened?
On the day Typhoon Yari hit, I was at home with my family. The government had issued a warning the day before, so schools and offices were closed. We spent the morning securing our windows and doors, bringing all the outdoor furniture inside, and stocking up on emergency supplies like water, food, and flashlights.
What exactly happened?
By the afternoon, the wind had started to pick up, and heavy rain poured non-stop. The storm reached its peak in the evening. The wind was so strong that it uprooted trees and tore roofs off houses. Electricity went out, leaving us in darkness except for a few candles and a battery-powered lantern. The sound of the wind and rain was deafening. Our house shook, and water started seeping in through the windows despite our efforts to seal them.
What were its effects?
When the storm finally passed, the town was unrecognizable. Several houses were severely damaged, and some were completely destroyed. Many roads were flooded, and power lines were down, leaving most of the area without electricity for days. Fortunately, there were no fatalities in our neighborhood, but a few people suffered minor injuries from falling debris.
How did you feel when it happened and when it was over?
During the storm, I felt terrified and helpless. The sheer force of nature was overwhelming, and I kept worrying about what might happen to our home and our loved ones. When the storm was over, I felt a mix of relief and sadness. I was thankful that my family and I were safe, but seeing the destruction around us was heartbreaking.
The experience taught me the importance of preparation and staying calm during emergencies. It also made me appreciate the strength and resilience of our community as we worked together to recover and rebuild.