The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. “A father frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended recently over risks to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Researchers have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
