The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team rescued 14 individuals stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official stated. “A father also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and a second individual who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing 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 making cyclones stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased 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 for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
