The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system triggered extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters reaching rooftop levels and homes washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and a second individual killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
Per meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended recently over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Researchers report that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
