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 triggered extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of people across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching the tops of houses and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials announced two fatalities: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to 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 more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers have found that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms cause approximately US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
