The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced over a million residents.
Officials reported that the massive storm caused widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and homes washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
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 storm system is projected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making cyclones stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Scientists report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that severe weather events result in an average of millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
