The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of millions of people across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing tropical storms more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
