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 triggered extensive sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million residents nationwide.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team rescued fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the main 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 over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening 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 thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for those still missing were halted recently over risks for rescue workers.
Global warming is making tropical storms more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation this year.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
