The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused widespread flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and another killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Researchers report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms cause an average of millions in dollars in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
