The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the massive storm triggered extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another killed when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately millions in dollars in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency last week because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
