The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused extensive flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of millions of residents nationwide.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. “A father also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is making cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report 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 cause approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
