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The Philippines was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.

Officials stated that the massive storm caused extensive flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the relocation of 1.4 million residents nationwide.

Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts

In the town of Pandan, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded rising waters reaching rooftop levels and homes being swept away by strong flows.

“Our personnel rescued fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a flood-prone area,” an emergency official stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We rescued him and four relatives.”

As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.

Storm Intensity and Projected Path

The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the main island, home to the national capital.

Per meteorological authorities, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.

The cyclone is projected to lose strength as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.

Response and Recovery

The national disaster response service stated efforts were ongoing to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.

Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.

Recent Context and Climate Impact

Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on toward Vietnam, where it killed five.

Search operations for those still missing were halted recently over risks to emergency personnel.

The climate crisis is making cyclones stronger and common. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.

Researchers report that the rate of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen doubled over the last two decades.

International estimates suggest that severe weather events result in an average of millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines annually.

The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week because of the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.