The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials reported that the powerful weather system triggered widespread flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team saved fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed 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, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing tropical storms more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen doubled in the past twenty years.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms result in an average of millions in dollars in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the severe damage from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from Fung-wong.