The island nation has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities stated that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of residents nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people stranded atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that severe weather events cause approximately millions in dollars in losses to the country annually.
The Philippine president issued a state of emergency on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
