The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of people across the country.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. “A father also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual killed when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation this year.
Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that severe weather events result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
