The Philippines 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 powerful weather system triggered widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. “A father also called in panic, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
Per meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
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, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in damage to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from the new storm.
