🔗 Share this article

The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.

Officials reported that the powerful weather system triggered widespread flash flooding, storm surges, landslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of people nationwide.

Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts

In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by the powerful currents.

Our team saved fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. “A father frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him along with four family members.”

By Monday, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another killed after her home gave way in eastern Samar.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.

According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.

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

Relief and Assessment

The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.

Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.

Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.

Global warming is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines in 2025.

Researchers have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased doubled in the past twenty years.

International estimates indicate that intense storms cause approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.

The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.