The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents nationwide.
Extensive Destruction 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 strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing tropical storms more intense and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists report that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that intense storms cause an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
