The Philippines has been hit hard by Super Typhoon 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 widespread flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. “A father also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people with another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is making cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
