🔗 Share this article

The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Officials stated that the massive storm caused extensive sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million people nationwide.

Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts

In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded rising waters reaching the tops of houses and homes washed out by the powerful currents.

Our team saved 14 individuals stranded atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”

By Monday, authorities confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.

Storm Intensity and Projected Path

The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.

Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.

The storm system is projected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.

Relief and Assessment

The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.

Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Searches for those still missing had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.

The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.

Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen doubled over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause approximately millions in dollars in damage to the country every year.

The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration last week because of the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.