The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system triggered widespread flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of millions of residents nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing cyclones more intense and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists report that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in an average of millions in dollars in losses to the country every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
