The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Officials stated that the massive storm triggered extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the evacuation of millions of people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and a second individual who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms 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 from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
