The island nation has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of 1.4 million people across the country.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and homes being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. “A father frantically contacted us, reporting the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon 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 more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing were halted recently due to safety concerns for rescue workers.
Global warming is causing tropical storms stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Researchers have found that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen doubled in the past twenty years.
International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president issued a state of emergency last week due to the severe damage from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
