The island nation 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 reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and homes washed out by strong flows.
Our team rescued 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, authorities announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms result in an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
