The Philippines was severely impacted by Super Typhoon 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 flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, authorities announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and a second individual who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped 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 in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is making tropical storms stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in an average of millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
