The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated 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 Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage 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 shortly following another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people and left another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has increased doubled in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines annually.
The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
