The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters reaching the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. “A father frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is making cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
