The Philippines has been hit hard by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and displaced over a million residents.
Authorities stated that the massive storm caused widespread sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million residents across the country.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, emergency crews recorded rising waters climbing to the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. “A father frantically contacted us, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced two fatalities: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading north toward 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 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for those still missing were halted recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased doubled over the last two decades.
Global assessments indicate that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.
The Philippine president issued an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
