The Philippines was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Officials reported that the powerful weather system triggered widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service stated 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
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president issued a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
