Philippines Calls 'State of Calamity'

It’s a big one: The Phillipines is bracing for what could be its biggest storm in 20 years. “We expect extensive damage on property and agriculture,” said Lt. Gen. Pangilinan, head of the military in northern Luzon. The estimated loss of rice crops, which makes up about one-fifth of the Phillipines’ GDP, will be extensive, leading local officials in Isabela province to declare a state of calamity in order to guard its food and energy supplies—and prepare for the rescue and relief stages. The typhoon is expected to eventually travel toward China, and potentially hit Hainan Island and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, China’s National Meteorological Center said Megi may be the worst to hit the country this year, and urged local governments to make full preparations for extreme weather.