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The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Officials reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the evacuation of millions of residents across the country.

Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts

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

Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. “A father frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”

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

Storm Intensity and Projected Path

The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.

According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at more than 275 km/h.

The storm system 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 to infrastructure and homes.

Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.

Recent Context and Environmental Factors

Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.

Search operations for the missing persons had to be suspended recently over risks for rescue workers.

Global warming is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.

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

Global assessments indicate that severe weather events result in an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines every year.

The nation’s leader issued an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.