The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. “A father also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday over risks to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines this year.
Researchers have found that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that intense storms result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
