The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm triggered extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded rising waters reaching the tops of houses and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. “A father frantically contacted us, reporting the roof of his house was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm 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, though wind bursts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Roughly thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
