The Philippines was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and homes being swept away by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
