The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused widespread flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team rescued 14 individuals stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials announced two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service indicated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
