The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of residents nationwide.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people stranded atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident 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, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another killed when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that intense storms cause approximately millions in dollars in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
