The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel rescued fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
