🔗 Share this article

The island nation 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.

Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of millions of people across the country.

Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts

In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded floodwaters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by strong flows.

Our team rescued 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”

By Monday, officials confirmed two fatalities: one from drowning in Catanduanes and another who died after her home gave way on Samar island.

Storm Intensity and Projected Path

The intense storm weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.

According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.

The storm system is expected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.

Relief and Assessment

The country’s emergency management agency indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.

Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to temporarily house 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people with another 135 missing before moving on toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Searches for those still missing were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.

Global warming is causing cyclones stronger and frequent. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.

Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.

International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines every year.

The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage from the prior typhoon and the expected damage from Fung-wong.