The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” 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 rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context 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.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms more intense and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Researchers have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration last week due to the extensive devastation from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from the new storm.
