The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the massive storm triggered extensive flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, authorities announced two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed 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 were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to assess damage on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
