The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and displaced over a million residents.
Authorities reported that the massive storm triggered extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, prompting the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual who died after her home gave way 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, where the capital is located.
Per 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 projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service indicated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people and left another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is making cyclones stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Researchers report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased doubled in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that severe weather events result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president issued a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from the new storm.
