The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals stranded atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, authorities confirmed two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm 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, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that intense storms cause an average of millions in dollars in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency last week because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
