The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of people across the country.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and homes being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that intense storms cause approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
