The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm triggered widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of people nationwide.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews documented rising waters reaching rooftop levels and homes washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. “A father also called in panic, reporting the roof of his house was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and a second individual killed after her home gave way on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, where the capital is located.
Per the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching more than 275 km/h.
The storm system is expected to continue weakening as it moves north toward Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, which killed hundreds of lives and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists have found that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage for the Philippines annually.
The nation’s leader declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
