The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Officials reported that the massive storm triggered extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
Our team rescued 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and a second individual who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is expected to continue weakening as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted recently over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists report that the frequency of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms cause approximately millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader issued an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
