The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system triggered extensive sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage 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, that claimed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing tropical storms stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists report that the frequency 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 damage for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
