The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams documented floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and homes being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued fourteen people stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making tropical storms more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased doubled over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
