The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of people across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and another killed when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing cyclones 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 increased doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
