The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, authorities confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is expected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing were halted recently over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing tropical storms stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Scientists have found that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by the prior typhoon and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
