The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of people nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel rescued fourteen people stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and another killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is projected to lose strength 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 thousands of shelters 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 at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making cyclones more intense and frequent. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers have found that the frequency of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has risen doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms cause an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
