The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced over a million residents.
Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause approximately millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
