The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and displaced over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of people nationwide.
Extensive Destruction 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 residences being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.
Roughly thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making cyclones stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that severe weather events cause approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The nation’s leader issued an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
