Super typhoon Rolly devastates Catanduanes, causing fatalities and widespread destruction

Super Typhoon Rolly caused widespread destruction in Catanduanes, destroying roads and houses.

Governor Joseph Cua reported that Rolly, a "super typhoon" with sustained winds of 225 kph, caused 5 fatalities in Catanduanes after residents drowned trying to cross raging floods.

The storm damaged 65 percent of houses made of light materials and around a quarter of bigger houses, affecting some 15,000 residents.

The super typhoon toppled 80 percent of Catanduanes' electric lines and transformers, leaving the province without electricity and telecommunication lines.

Senator Richard Gordon had previously reported that at least 80% of houses in three Catanduanes towns were destroyed.

Residents in Gigmoto saw damaged roads near the sea and houses that lost their roofs, while in Viga, some houses were completely destroyed and many trees and electric posts fell.

The capital of Virac was also heavily devastated, including hospitals and supermarkets.

The Office of Civil Defense Region V had reported one fatality in the province due to the typhoon.