The island nation has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued 14 individuals stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest 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, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Roughly thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms cause an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
