The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, resulting in at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Officials reported that the massive storm caused extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams documented floodwaters climbing to the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
“Our personnel saved fourteen people stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was about to be ripped off due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”
By Monday, officials announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim on the island and a second individual who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon on Monday morning as it crossed the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds dropped from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
Global warming is causing cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to hit the Philippines this year.
Scientists have found that the frequency of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in damage to the country every year.
The Philippine president declared a state of emergency on Thursday because of the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
