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 powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is making tropical storms more intense and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms cause an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
