The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, resulting in 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, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Operations
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams documented floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and homes washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The national disaster response service indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives and left another 135 missing prior to advancing to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing were halted on Sunday due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing tropical storms more intense and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists report that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause an average of US$3.5 million in losses for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
