The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of millions of people nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. “A father frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the main 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, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making cyclones more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines 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 severe weather events cause an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
