PLACES IN NEWS - 25 October 2024

Philippines: Tropical Storm Trami

On 24 October, Tropical Storm Trami killed at least 26 people and forced more than 150,000 to flee their homes in the Philippines. The storm made landfall on the northeastern coast, causing widespread destruction.

Impact of Trami

1. Heavy to torrential rain was dumped on the main island of Luzon, triggering widespread flooding and landslides.
2. With maximum sustained winds of 95 kph (59 mph), Trami was moving westward across the Cordillera region towards the South China Sea.
3. The state weather agency warned of heavy to intense rainfall, flooding, landslides, and storm surges in northern provinces.

Philippines’ Geography

1. Archipelagic country in Southeast Asia with approximately 7,640 islands.
2. Main divisions:
   1. Luzon (north)
   2. Visayas (central)
   3. Mindanao (south)

Capital and Major Cities

1. Capital: Manila
2. Largest city: Quezon City

Surrounding Bodies of Water

1. Bordered by:
   1. Philippine Sea (east)
   2. South China Sea (west)
   3. Celebes Sea (south)
2. Nearby locations:
   1. Borneo (southwest)
   2. Taiwan (north)
   3. Sulawesi (southwest)
   4. Palau (east)

Geographical Features

1. Highest mountain: Mount Apo
2. Longest river: Cagayan River (northern Luzon)
3. Manila Bay connected to Laguna de Bay via Pasig River
4. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

Seismic Activity

1. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, leading to frequent seismic and volcanic activity.
2. Active volcanoes:
   1. Mayon Volcano
   2. Mount Pinatubo
   3. Taal Volcano

Energy Production: The Philippines is the second-largest geothermal energy producer (after the USA).

Biodiversity and Climate: A megadiverse country with a tropical maritime climate (hot and humid).

Heavy Rainfall in Kerala's Idukki District

Heavy rainfall in the Idukki district of Kerala on October 24 forced authorities to release water from several minor dams, as water levels approached critical levels.

Actions Taken

1. The Idukki district administration approved the release of 500 cumex of water from the Pambla dam.
2. Two shutters of the Kallar dam were raised by 10 cm each.
3. These measures were taken due to heavy rainfall in the catchment area, which increased water storage levels.
4. Authorities advised residents living along the Periyar, Kallar, and Chinnar rivers to be cautious and follow safety directions.

About Idukki District:

1. Creation: One of the 14 districts of Kerala, formed on January 26, 1972.
2. Geography: Known for its mountainous hills and dense forests.
3. Power Generation: Accounts for about 66% of Kerala's power needs from hydroelectric power projects located in Idukki.
4. Area and Population: The second-largest district by area but has the lowest population density.
5. Forest Coverage: Over half of the district is covered by forests.
6. Urban vs. Rural: Urban areas are densely populated, while villages have a sparser population.
7. Spice Garden: Idukki is often referred to as the spice garden of Kerala.

Tourism

1. Nature-Rich Area: A landlocked district featuring beautiful high ranges and wooded valleys.
2. Major Rivers: Bordered by three main rivers – Periyar, Thalayar, and Thodupuzhayar, along with their tributaries.
3. River Origins: The River Pamba also originates in this region.

4. Hydro Electric Projects: The Idukki dam is part of the Idukki Hydro Electric Project, consisting of the Idukki Arch dam, Cheruthoni dam, and Kulamavu dam, which together form the Idukki reservoir.

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

 

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