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The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Officials stated that the powerful weather system caused extensive sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.

Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts

In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams documented rising waters climbing to rooftop levels and homes being swept away by strong flows.

Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident frantically contacted us, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”

By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.

Typhoon Strength and Forecast

The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.

According to meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.

The storm system is projected to lose strength while heading north toward Taiwan.

Relief and Assessment

The national disaster response service indicated efforts were ongoing to assess damage on buildings and roads.

Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.

Previous Storms and Environmental Factors

The typhoon hit shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.

Search operations for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday due to safety concerns for rescue workers.

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

Researchers have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has increased doubled over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that severe weather events cause approximately millions in dollars in losses to the country annually.

The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency on Thursday because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.