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The Philippines has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Authorities stated that the powerful weather system triggered widespread sudden floods, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.

Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts

In the town of Pandan, a severely affected area, emergency crews documented rising waters reaching rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.

Our team rescued fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”

By Monday, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest 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 storm system is expected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.

Response and Recovery

The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.

Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.

Previous Storms and Climate Impact

Fung-wong struck shortly following another severe storm, which killed at least 224 people and left another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.

Searches for those still missing were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.

The climate crisis is causing tropical storms more intense and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.

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

International estimates indicate that intense storms result in approximately millions in dollars in damage to the country annually.

The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and anticipated impacts from Fung-wong.