The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and homes being swept away by the powerful currents.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. “A father frantically contacted us, reporting the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is projected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate 92,000 families.
Recent Context and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in approximately millions in dollars in losses for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week because of the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
