The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. “A father frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people and left another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended recently over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events cause an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
