The island nation 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.
Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and residences being swept away by strong flows.
“Our personnel rescued fourteen people who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another killed when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making tropical storms stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage for the Philippines every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
