The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced over a million residents.
Officials stated that the massive storm triggered extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people and left another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has risen doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.
